Parap

Parap
Starting at the top, from left to right: (1) The Teatro de Bellas Artes de Parap, built in 1699 AN; (2) A morning scene in Plaza Wechua, with the Inti Pacha T'aqa Monument in its center; (3) Parap viewed from beyond Company Hill, a mountain terraced and hollowed out by the Honourable Company to form its primary Residency in the Wechua Nation; (4) An evening scene around Inti Kuntur Wasi, the Golden Condor monument; (5) An evening scene in the Inti Cuadrado square, with the Cathedral of Viracocha in view.
Flag of Parap Flag Coat of Arms
Motto: "Urqunchikkunam pusawanchik" Wechu: "Our mountains guide us."
Anthem:
Map versions
Official language(s)
Demonym
- Adjective
Government
Regional Governor of Wechua Nation
Legislature	Illaqta Kamachiy Parap
Major of Parap
Establishment	1657 AN
Area
Population	8,345,234 (1723 AN)
Currency
Abbreviation
Time zone(s)
Patron
Animal
Drink

Parap is the capital and largest city of the Wechua Nation, a Region of Nouvelle Alexandrie. It is the second largest city in Nouvelle Alexandrie, second to Punta Santiago. It is located in the mountainous center of the Wechua Nation, at the foot of one of the largest peaks of Keltia, Mount Lacara.

The 1729 census registered the population of the city proper of Parap as 8,345,234, with the city having a population density of 27,000/km2 (69,930/mi2) (1723 AN). According to the most recent definitions agreed upon by the federal and regional governments in 1729 AN, the population of the statistical Greater Parap area is 18,804,515. Its elevation is around 3,400m (11,200 ft). Parap is also the capital of the state of Kuntisuyu, an important subdivision of the Wechua Nation. The city has 21 boroughs or barrios, which are in turn, further divided into neighborhoods or colonias. The Greater Parap area is responsible for generating 15.8% of the entire GDP of the Wechua Nation in 1728 AN, which makes it one of the most productive urban areas in the Region and in Nouvelle Alexandrie.

The city is the historical and ancient capital of the Wechua people and the heart of Wechua culture and the Faith of Inti. Parap is among the oldest cities in Keltia, founded by the Wechua people. The city was originally built at the foot of Mount Lacara, sprouting in the area known today as Inti Cuadrado and the Cathedral of Viracocha. The city was completely destroyed and rebuilt several times by different Keltian nations that dominated and subjugated the Wechua for centuries. After extensive reconstruction and an urban renaissance under King Manco Capac, the city began to flourish and develop quickly, attracting Caputians, Alexandrians, and Haifans as well as many Wechua that were looking for jobs and stability in the city. In 1657 AN, the city of Parap and an independent Wechua Nation were officially recognized by the Micras Cartography Society (MCS), heralding the start of the city's current modern era. During the White Plague and the Wechua Sorrow, the city suffered greatly as it descended into ungovernable chaos, violence, and a massive exodus of residents.

With the Great Restoration in 1673 AN, the Wechua Planning Commission made the reconstruction and development of Parap one of the highest priorities of the national reconstruction. During this time, residents were given the right to elect both a head of government and the representatives for a unicameral City Assembly. Ever since, the city's government has been dominated by two political forces: left-wing parties (first the Social Democrat Club and later by different New Alexandrian center-left or leftist parties) or by centrist independents. Parap served as the capital of the independent Wechua Nation and later as co-capital of Nouvelle Alexandrie with Punta Santiago when the Federation was first founded in 1685 AN. As co-capital, Parap served as the home of the executive and administrative functions of the Federation while Punta Santiago housed the legislative and judicial. This lasted until the federal government moved to its new capital, Cárdenas, in 1691 AN.

Currently, Parap is one of the most important political, cultural, economic, and religious centers of Nouvelle Alexandrie, attracting over 3 million visitors each year. The city serves as one of the holiest sites of the Faith of Inti, the faith of a large majority of people in the Wechua Nation.

Nicknames

Parap is traditionally known through several different nicknames such as Kuntur Pacha ("Condor's Realm" in Wechua), Le Refuge des Nuages ("The Refuge of Clouds" in Alexandrian), and Parap de los Cielos (Parap of the Skies in Martino). The city is known for its large (and statutorily protected) population of Lacara Condors, a bird native to the area, and for its morning fogs, both which have earned the city many of its most used nicknames.

History

Parap stands as the esteemed capital and the quintessential cultural heartland of the Wechua people, additionally revered as a major sacred city within the Faith of Inti. The city's history is deeply etched in its ancient human settlements, notably the Parap Burials discovered in 1678 AN in the Virembó barrio during a monumental urban renewal project under the Five-Year Plans of the Wechua Nation. Dating back to circa 198 AN, these remains are among the oldest in Keltia, exhibiting a blend of Wechua and Atteran genetic lineages.

Despite being a cradle of early civilization, Parap was not spared from the ravages of war and conquest. The Wechua endured periods of domination and conflict, notably against emerging nations like Attera and Caput Popularis. The initial settlement at Mount Lacara's base, known today as Parap, was established in 259 AN by the Wechua. They constructed a grand shrine, ceremonial square, and fortress in the area now called Inti Cuadrado. The city's mythic origins tell of the great golden condor Qori Kuntur, a divine envoy of Inti, whose descent upon Mount Lacara spurred the founding of a city under the sun god's vigilant gaze.

A painting by Louis Vertfray from 1680 AN, depicting the destruction of Parap by Attera.

Parap's narrative is one of resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times following its total destruction by conquering forces. The Atteran Empire's harsh subjugation, which included mass deportations of Wechua people to western Keltia, gave rise to the "Western Keltian Graft" — a diaspora adapting to nomadic life before assimilation into the Vanderveer Reich. Their distinct cultural evolution led to the emergence of Coastal Wechu. Subsequent state subsidies since 1657 AN facilitated their resettlement in Parap and southern Wechua regions, mainly around the port city of San Francisco.

A pivotal era dawned in 1655 AN as the House of Inti emerged as a unifying entity, culminating in the elevation of Titu Cusi to Sapa Wechua in 1569 AN, following the High Priest of the Sun's blessing. Under his reign, Parap thrived, attracting a diverse population and witnessing expansive public works. Yet, challenges persisted, with Keltian nomadic tribes launching assaults in 1607 AN, 1608 AN, and 1619 AN, causing widespread destruction.

Following its recognition as the capital of the first Wechua Kingdom in 1657 AN, under the rule of Sapa Wechua Manco Capac, Parap emerged as a beacon of independence for the Wechua Nation. It was during this time that the city became an epicenter of democratic fervor, with widespread movements advocating for political and social reforms. These movements culminated in the establishment of a constitution and the commencement of general elections, setting the stage for a modern civic society. In the wake of institutional reform, Parap experienced an unprecedented urban renaissance. It transformed into a bustling metropolis, drawing people from across Micrasand from within its national borders. The city became known as a land of opportunity, where diverse cultures merged and the promise of prosperity drew many to its streets and markets. This period of growth, however, was met with the devastating impact of the White Plague and the collective mourning of the Wechua Sorrow, which cast a shadow of chaos, violence, and a mass exodus over the city.

It wasn't until the advent of the Great Restoration in 1673 AN that Parap began to claw back from the brink. With deliberate and targeted efforts under national reconstruction plans, the city was revitalized. Investments poured into infrastructure, cultural institutions were re-established, and Parap once again ascended as a hub of development and prosperity. The city's strategic position and renewed vibrancy attracted businesses, academics, and artisans alike, propelling it to become the second-largest city of the Federation of Nouvelle Alexandrie.

Upon the foundation of Nouvelle Alexandrie (originally as Alduria-Wechua) in 1685 AN, Parap's role in the new federation was solidified as it became the co-capital. It held the Federation's executive and administrative bodies, thereby influencing the nascent political landscape of the broader region. This era was marked by substantial urban planning and development, reflecting the city's newfound status within the Federation. However, the capital's move to Cárdenas in 1691 AN marked a shift in Parap's role within the Federation. No longer the center of administrative power, the city adapted by bolstering its identity as a cultural and economic powerhouse. The government's decision to relocate the capital was met with mixed emotions; however, it allowed Parap to forge a new path focused on cultural preservation and economic innovation.

In the subsequent decades, Parap has continued to grow, both in size and in stature. Its universities are renowned centers of learning and research, its markets are bustling hubs of trade, and its cultural festivals attract visitors from all corners of the Federation and beyond. The city's architecture is a blend of traditional Wechua designs and modern innovations, symbolizing the city's respect for its past and its embrace of the future. By 1729 AN, Parap stands as a testament to resilience and diversity. Its history is etched into every stone of its grand plazas and in the spirit of its people, who continue to look forward, driven by the same pioneering spirit that has defined this city since its inception. As Parap continues to evolve, it retains its status as a jewel of the Wechua Nation and a treasured city within Nouvelle Alexandrie.

Cityscape

Architecture

The architecture of Parap is mostly inspired by the styles of the Wechua people, but also by Caputian architecture. The city is limited in its expansion by the mountains that surround it. Some of the oldest parts of the city are the Ciudadela, the city citadel, that protects it from the north valley; and the Hatun Wasi Viracocha (Cathedral of Viracocha), an integral part of the Faith of Inti, with the massive Inti Cuadrado (Sun Square) in front of it.

Parap is considered Wechua's primary city, and has some of the most extensive infrastructure in the nation.

Barrio

The 22 Barrios that compose Parap are:

1. Ciudadela
2. Illaqta Ukhupi
3. Llamkay Urqu
4. Kusikuy Illaqta
5. Hatun Yachay Wasi Illaqta
6. Hanaq Sacha
7. Haciepa
8. Atfael
9. Ibicife
10. Pamache
11. Penbuco
12. Juaíla
13. Hualvilca
14. Limcia
15. Qieda
16. Ypawa
17. Caaputora
18. Patuy
19. Buital
20. Virembó
21. Mosqolopo
22. Fornempa

Illaqta Ukhupi

The 'Downtown' area of Parap is the large historic core of the city. Within it are many of the city's main cultural venues and governmental buildings, such as the Gobiernopa Wasinkunan (Government Halls) which holds the regional council for Kuntisuyu, of which Parap is the capital, as well as the Parap City Council (Illaqta Kamachiy). The City Hospital is located east of the city centre, being the main medical facility in the city. The Illaqta Nisqapi (City Theater) is also a cultural eyecatcher.

It is located in the heart of the Lacara Valley where Parap is located in, being more flat than most parts of the city. It stands below Llamkay Urqu (Company Hill) and Kusikuy Illaqta (Music Town) to the north, and the Hatun Yachay Wasi Illaqta (University Town) and Hanaq Sacha (High Hill) to the south.

Downtown is also the transit heart of the city, with the Parap Libertad Station as the main train and metro hub of the city.

Company Hill

The Company Hill (Llamkay Urqu) is the main business district located north of the city centre. The district begun under the Honourable Company, who hollowed out the Hill itself. Much of the rest of the district followed around it, now standing at more than 100,000 daily workers and 2,100,000 square metres (22,600,000 sq ft) of office space. Most of the district is dedicated to business, and therefore has little permanent residents. The largest of these is the students area of the Llamkay Business College, housing around 24,600 students.

The district contains some of the tallest high-rises in the city, most importantly the ESB Tower which is located at the Hill itself, as well as the Kerularios Tower, Quisuyupanqui-Huyhua Tower (PCE HQ), and Parap International Trade Center. The Aucapuma Wasin (Hall) holds trade fairs and conferences.

Kusikuy Illaqta

'Joytown', as its translation means, is the main culture and entertainment district in the city. It is centred around the Surichaqui Stadium, the main sports venue in the city. On Surichaqui Square there are also Tomayro Cinema and Arcade, as well as numerous leisure businesses and restaurants. Usucachi Zoo is the city zoo, standing west of Surichaqui. East of the stadium is the Sayritupac Pool, the city's swimming center. The Stadium is used by the city's Parap Piluta Haytáy Qutu (Football Club), as well as for athletics.

Hatun Yachay Wasi Illaqta

"University Town" is the location of the Royal University of Parap, while also having a major business and science district. The University has multiple faculties, and is specialized in technology and healthcare. It is also connected to the University Hospital, the second medical facility in the city. The University was built during the Second Wechua Kingdom period, and has since then expanded.

The business and science district is filled with many major organizations, with the 'Paucarchuco Campus' in the northwest corner known for its excellence in life sciences. Yanay-Mayu Biotechnology and Ttika Quihue Sciences are the foremost of these companies. There is also a large Wechua heritage center, hosted by the Wechuan Historical Society and the Parap Philosophical Society.

Hanaq Sacha

"High Hill" is a neighbourhood in Parap known for its embassies and consulates, as well as being the most expensive neighbourhood in the city. It is also known for its nightlife, with extensive social clubs and casinos. High Hill is one of the older parts of the cities, once hosting several of the Wechua Nation ministries. With the collapse of the nation and subsequent restoration, the neighbourhood has been redeveloped with many offices and apartments as well.

Government

Executive

• Major of Parap
• Deputy Major of Parap
• Major's Cabinet
  • Cabinet Departments
• Majoral Advisory Council

Legislative

• Unicameral legislature: Illaqta Kamachiy Parap
  • Barrios Councils

Safety

• Kuntisuyu Police Department
• Parap Gendarmerie
• Kuntisuyu Fire Department

Security

The main garrison of the city and surrounding Federal District is provided by III Combined Arms Corps of the Federal Army, consisting of the 1003^rd Corps HQ Company, the 609^th General Support Regiment, the 610^th Area Defence Unit, the 611^th Pioneer Regiment, and the 612^th Works & Maintenance Regiment.

Generalised ground based air defence for the city is provided by two Silver Hammer regiments attached to the 610^th Area Defence Unit, with the batteries routinely rotated between concealed locations on the outskirts of the city under the cover of darkness.

Flying units operating out of the Ciudadela Air Base are grouped under the Parap Federal Air Defence Wing, including a squadron of FA-9 Banshees and an evaluation flight of F-17 Axarana tasked with air policing and interception missions.

Education

• Royal University of Parap
  • Faculty of Physical and Applied Sciences
  • Faculty of Life Sciences
  • Faculty of Anthropology
  • Faculty of Theology and Intian Studies
• Parap Federal Colleges
  • Llamkay Business College
  • Huamancuri College
  • Allccarima College

Infrastructure

Transportation

• Parap MetroRail System
• Kuntisuyu Bus
• Parap Commuter Rail
• Parap International Airport

Highways

• City Ring (Part of Pan-Keltian Highway)
• Qieda Bypass
• Virembó Bypass

Utilities

Healthcare

• Parap Health Services
  • City Hospital
  • University Hospital

Electricity

• Parap Coal Plant
• Kuntisuyu Gas Power Plants
  • Çardolatí Gas Plant
  • Haciepa Gas Plant
• Kuntisuyu Oil Power Plants
  • Penbuco Oil Plant

Sports

Professional Teams

• Parap FC (Soccer)
• Parap Hockey Club
• Hacha Pukllay Huñu (Basketball)
• Tiburón Wanpuy Huñu (Swimming)

Facilities

• Surichaqui Stadium
• Sayritupac Swimming Pool