Falangina
| Falangina Little Phalanx |
|
|---|---|
Region of  Vegno |
|
 |
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| Capital | Monsaltus |
| Government | |
| • President | Claudia Mancosu (PC) |
| Area | |
| • Total | 7,699.68 km2 (2,972.86 sq mi) |
| Population (1724 AN) | |
| • Total | 42,367 |
| • Density | 5.5/km2 (14/sq mi) |
| Demonym | Falangino |
| Time zone | CMT+2 |
Falangina (/ˈfaland͡ʒˈina/), in Istvanistani sometimes referred to as Little Phalanx, is a region and island of Vegno, located in the extreme northern section of the country, having all the borders directly to the Northern Sea; it's the second bigger island of Vegno, after Falange and before Falangetta. The region comprises a population of about 42,367 people (as 1724 AN)
Its chief town, largest and only real city is Monsaltus.
Geography
The Falangina region is a remote island located in the extreme north of Vegno and Apollonia, characterized by a unique geography and a polar climate. Despite its relatively small population of around 42,367 people, the island covers a sizeable area of more than 7,699.68 square kilometres, offering plenty of space and a great variety of landscapes.
The geography of Falangina is dominated by majestic mountains and hills, which rise majestically in the central part of the island. The peaks are covered in snow throughout the year creating a breathtaking spectacle, recalling landscapes typical of the northern regions. These reliefs also offer suggestive panoramas.
The coast of Falangina is characterized by fjords, inlets and bays, which extend along the coast of the island. These coastal formations create a marine environment rich in biodiversity and offer spectacular views. The crystalline waters of the fjords and bays are perfect for sailing, fishing and other water activities, but difficult to swim in given the extremely cold temperatures even during the winter months.
Falangina's climate is typically Nordic, similar to the extremely northern regions of Apollonia. Winters are cold and harsh, with average temperatures consistently remaining below freezing. Snow is common during the winter and fall months, with no lack of notable hail. The inhabitants prepare themselves for the low temperatures with very warm clothing and with a large use of heating systems in the houses for almost the whole year.
However, summers in Falangina are fairly mild during the day, with average temperatures hovering around 10-15 degrees Celsius. The island enjoys long summer days with many hours of sunlight, providing ample opportunity for excursions, outdoor activities, which are impractical during the winter.
The vegetation on Falangina Island is adapted to the Nordic conditions. Coniferous forests, such as pine, fir and larch, are abundant in the mountains and hills. These woodlands create a picturesque environment and provide shelter for a variety of animal species, including deer, bear and fox.
The only truly large inhabited center where 90% of the island's population resides is the capital Monsaltus, while in the rest of the island there are only small rural settlements, mainly characterized by small agricultural fields and farms.
Economy
The economy of Falangina Island is based on several activities, mainly concentrated in its only large city, Monsaltus.
- Primary sector: Agriculture is an important component of Falangina's economy, despite the challenges imposed by the harsh climate. Local farmers focus on growing products adapted to Nordic conditions, such as cereals, potatoes, beets and root vegetables. Some livestock farms, such as sheep and goats, may be present above all for the production of local milk and cheese.
- Tourism Sector: Thanks to the natural beauty and pristine environment of the island, tourism is an important pillar of the economy of Falangina, although tourists generally prefer the large island of Falange and its city Sancrus, much better equipped to accommodate considerable tourists. Monsaltus, the main and only real city, still offers tourist services, such as hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and recreational activities.
- Fish sector: Considering the presence of inlets and fjords along the coast, the fishing industry plays a significant and fundamental role in the local economy. The waters of Falangina Island are home to several species of fish, which could be fished both for local consumption and for export to other regions. The main products of this area are in fact tuna, salmon and octopus.
- Handicraft sector: The island boasts a developed handicraft tradition, especially linked to woodworking. The coniferous forests present historically provide material for the production of furniture, handicrafts and wooden artifacts.
- Renewable energy: Given the northern location and the harsh climate, Falangina can exploit natural resources for the production of renewable energy. The central government of Vegno has in fact over the years invested heavily in the region's wind energy, exploiting the strong winds that characterize the region, or in hydroelectric energy using the waterways and fjords. Currently Falangina represents the second region for the production of clean renewable energy within Vegno, preceded only by the island of Falange.
Administrative divisions
| Province | Area (km2) | Population
(1724 AN census) |
Density
(inhabitants/km2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monsaltus | 7,699.68 | 42,367 | 5.50 |
