The city of Afar, the oldest Kanjorien settlement of its size, sits at the head of Sovalt Bay, on Isle of Tondola. It is noted for its long history and its garden-like atmosphere.
Location[]
Afar lies almost perfectly in the centre of Sovalt Province, at the head of the Sovalt Bay. It is nestled between the sea, the Sovalt River, and a branch of the Tondola Alps. This gives it a colder, wetter climate than further up the Sovalt Bay, with mists forming around the city due to the proximity of the mountains and the expanses of water.
History[]
The city of Afar is the first city established in the territories conquered by the Selucian Empire from the native Willitu people during the so-called "pacification of Kanjor" (1861-1882) and served as the capital of the newly-established province of Canrillia Superior. Its strategic location led to its growth, eclipsing the old Kanjorian capital of Kanjo. Afar eventually declined in importance after a powerful Orientalis storm, the Orientalis Magna of 1912 destroyed most of the merchant shipping fleet anchored in the commercial center of Afar at the head of Sovalt Bay. The government and many trading companies believed that Atyr's deep water and protected harbor would better serve for the protection of their business than would the exposed harbor of Afar, and the capital of Kanjor was relocated to Atyr. Afar remained a major city, but remained eclipsed by its competitor Atyr.
Culture[]
Afar has a strong artistic community, who take inspiration from the long history of the city, the sense of municipal honour, and the geographical nature of the city. Afar is largely covered by both private and municipal gardens, which give the city a laid-back and open feel.
Landmarks[]
The 'heart' of Afar is the Central Coast District, which combines both the business and recreation hubs of the city. In the centre of the district lies the main wharf, which allows ships to dock on both sides, with cruise liners entering to form temporary hotels.
The 'Lady of Afar' remains one of Afar's most famous landmarks, created in the 18th century.
Near the city lies the national monument to the landings of the Zanyal.
Government and Poltics[]
Afar is currently governed by a coalition of local politicians from the PPPP, PPK and the Kanjoran Centrist Party.
Les Verts du Kanjor, now an inactive party, was founded in Afar in September, 2340.