Exópolis
| Exópolis Εξώπολις |
|
|---|---|
| Informal settlement | |
 |
|
| Country |  Constancia |
| City | Astérapolis |
| Province | Prosgeiosi Basileus |
| Established | c. 1710 AN |
| Population (1750 AN (est.)) | |
| • Total | 22,000–28,000 |
Exópolis (Constancian: Εξώπολις, "Outside City" or "The Outer") is an informal settlement located on the southern hillsides beyond the formal urban boundary of Astérapolis, Prosgeiosi Basileus. It is one of several trenchópolis communities ringing the ceremonial capital, housing an estimated 22,000 to 28,000 residents in structures built on steep terrain overlooking the city proper.
History
The settlement emerged around 1710 AN as migrants seeking employment in Astérapolis found themselves excluded from the regulated housing market. The hillside location, considered unsuitable for formal development due to gradient and soil instability, was gradually occupied by improvised dwellings. The name Exópolis, meaning "Outside City," was adopted by residents themselves, reflecting their physical and social position beyond the boundaries of official Astérapolis.
Characteristics
Exópolis is distinguished by its densely packed, brightly painted structures ascending the hillside in irregular terraces. Narrow lanes and stairways connect different levels, with some passages barely wide enough for pedestrian traffic. The settlement is bisected by a road tunnel, locally known as the Sýranga ton Xechasménon (Tunnel of the Forgotten), which carries traffic between the formal city and agricultural areas to the south. The tunnel's construction in 1732 AN displaced approximately 400 families, who were not compensated.
Municipal services remain absent or inadequate. Electricity is obtained through informal connections to the city grid, while water is drawn from communal standpipes installed following the cholera outbreak of 1722 AN. The Prefect's office maintains no permanent presence in the settlement.
