Gaelen's Landing

Gaelen's Landing
File:Coa Gaelens Landing.png
Population:	27,050
Predominant language:	Præta (official), Jingaoese (official) Audente, Istvanistani (tolerated)
Main roads:	Duke's Avenue, Chidao Street
Major districts:
Current mayor:	Pater Familias of "the House of San (Lord of Gaelen's Landing)
Map versions:	every map

"Gaelen’s Landing stands as both a harbor and a heritage, where the tides of Shirerithian tradition met the unbroken spirit of Jingdao. Here, every marble stone and song whispers the legacy of Kaisers and Heavenly Lights alike."

The marble statue of Kaiser Gaelen I dates back to the 15th century. It's one of the sole remaining (public) statues that survived the Revolution of 1617 with no damage. From this period dates the tradition of appointing a Honrary Guardian, who has to protect the statue with his life or be burnt at alive.

Gaelen's Landing is a picturesque historic coastal city in the Zhaoqin Province of the Imperial Republic of Shireroth and serves as the capital of the Dutchy of Kildare. Known for its scenic views, rich history, and blend of Shirerithian and Jingdaoese architecture, Gaelen’s Landing grew into both a significant cultural hub and a popular tourist destination.

Due to its prominent history and symbolic significance, Gaelen’s Landing was largely preserved from the destruction that accompanied the Revolution of 1617, making it a rare site where monuments to the Shirerithian era still stand( earning itself a special spot on the watchlist of the Tegong). It serves as a bridge between the Benacian and Apollonian continents, connecting Jingdaoese and Shirerithian influences. Since 1707 AN it saw an influx of Shirerithians from the Benacian continent.

History

Foundation and Legendary Beginnings

According to local legend, Kaiser Gaelen I landed on the shores of what is now Gaelen’s Landing in 1451 AN, setting foot on Apollonian soil with the intent to establish a powerful empire. From this strategic coastal point, Gaelen I launched campaigns to unify and conquer the city-states and small kingdoms of the Classical Apollonian World, what later became known as the Kildarian Dutchy. The era of his rule was commemorated in Jingdaoese records as the Youya Dynasty, in their attempt to 'jingdao-ify” the history of the region.

The Revolution of 1617 and Preservation

During the Revolution of 1617, when most monuments and symbols of the Shirerithian Kaisers were systematically destroyed, the people of Gaelen’s Landing successfully preserved the city's iconic statue of Kaiser Gaelen I. This act of defiance placed the city on the Tegong's watchlist, ensuring that Gaelen’s Landing would remain a focal point of both admiration and scrutiny.

Treaty of Gaelen’s Landing (1707 AN)

Gaelen's Landing played a crucial role in reuniting Greater Kildare with the Imperial Republic of Shireroth after their long separation. The Treaty of Gaelen’s Landing was signed in 1707 AN within the city, symbolizing the restoration of relations between Jingdao and Shireroth and establishing Gaelen's Landing as the administrative center of a now smaller but strategically important Kildare.

The city acts as a cultural and diplomatic bridge between Shireroth’s Benacian traditions and the Jingdaoese cultural legacy. This role has been further solidified by its status as a host city to the Imperial Shiro-Jing Symphony, which performs regularly for dignitaries and citizens alike, reinforcing bonds between the East and West through music. Due to this cultural importance, Gaelen’s Landing often hosts festivals and international gatherings, drawing visitors from both continents and serving as a major point of interaction and exchange.

Notable infastructure

Gaelen's Hold

A sprawling palace complex, Gaelen’s Hold is a unique mix of Jingdaoese and Kildarian architectural styles. Originally built as a summer residence for the Heavenly Light, the palace was granted to the House of San in 1683 AN in recognition of their service. The Hold is now the administrative center of the city and the residence of Lord Jin San.

Kaiser Gaelen Academy

Formerly a training ground for the Imperial Kadetten, the Kaiser Gaelen Academy was extensively repaired and renovated for the use of the General Inspectorate of Apollonia Command. The academy symbolizes Gaelen’s Landing’s martial heritage and commitment to upholding the unity between Shireroth and Jingdao.

Ramparts of Gaelen's Landing

These historic defensive works encircle the old city, showcasing Shirerithian fortification techniques. Although partially demolished in places due to the Obedience Destruction, the ramparts retain several key strongpoints:

• North Gate Bastion – Originally a Tegong outpost, the bastion was refortified in 1707 AN. From 1707 till 1724 AN it served as the administrative headquarters of the General Inspectorate of Apollonia Command, after which it became the headquarters of the local militia.
• Tower of Prolonged Suffering – Known for its grim reputation, this tower was designed to detain wealthy residents and foreigners awaiting justice, providing minimal comforts with its infamous "warm beer and poor service."

Temple of Holy Peace (Hagia Salome)

The Temple of Holy Peace was the first temple of the Imperial Cult authorized in Gaelen’s Landing since the Treaty of Gaelen’s Landing. Known locally as Hagia Salome, the temple serves as a spiritual sanctuary and a place for observing the shared religious heritage of Shireroth and Jingdao.

Sisera's Eye

This spiritual site holds a revered place in the city, known for its intricate architecture and mystical atmosphere. Worshippers and pilgrims often visit Sisera’s Eye for quiet reflection and to honor the ancient traditions and beliefs preserved in Gaelen’s Landing.

Tzi Harbour

The Tzi Harbour is Gaelen's Landing’s picturesque and well-fortified fishing harbor. Protected by the city walls, it serves as both a functional trade hub and a scenic location popular with tourists.