Gatineau

Gatineau (pronounced /gæ-ti-nɔ/ GAH-tee-NOH) is the capital of Tybalteva and the largest city of the state of Archeviers. Gatineau has a population of 2.7 million people, and forms the heart of the Glèàm Lùnarej Areèaa (Green Lung Area) with the surrounding forêts profondes (deep forests).

Strategically located along the Léonine River, Gatineau's history stretches back to over two thousand years, when Karmelitic tribes started settling down in the area in the first century. Most of the buildings and landmarks of the city were built over the ancient settlements during the Middle Ages and Arthur Aedan's conquest due to a significant influx of merchants coming from the coastline seeking a safer place to live in. The city was later designated the capital of Tybalteva under Arthur's reign.

Due to its strong medieval heritage, Gatineau contains several sites protected by the National Tybaltevan Heritage Conservatory (NATYCO), including the fortress, the Arène des chevaliers morts au combat (arena of fallen knights), the Golden Hall, the Hotel du Repos du Guerrier ("well-earned rest" inn) and the Royal Castle.

Gatineau received 11 million international visitors in 2019, making it the most visited Tybaltevan city.

Etymology
The city has successively been known under the names Artarane and Artan-sur-Léonine, before taking its present name at Arthur Aedan's instigation in the 17th century. "Gatineau" means "Golden Fortress" in old Tybaltevan and was said to be the name of a prominent city of the kingdom of Tridenter, where Aedan was allegedly born. Tales say it was likely that particular reference to the cradle of the royal line was made out of superstition.

Geography
Gatineau is located in the center of Tybalteva and roughly bisected into northern and southern halves by the Léonine River.

In the North, the fortress area (called "Vieux Gatineau" or Old Gatineau) - surrounded by pastures and woods - is the most ancient part of the city. Within its battlements, the Vieux Château (the old castle) is not to be mistaken for Gatineau Royal Castle - the Tybaltevan royal family's dwelling - situated on a hill 1km north of the capital.

In the south, the rest of the city - built as the population grew - mainly comprises half-timbering houses and market places linked to each other through a web of alleys that has not been touched since the Middles Ages.

Gatineau is the only city in Tybalteva devoid of suburbs: a decree meant to preserve its architectural integrity was adopted in 1795, when Hadrian Aedan ascended the throne, thus stopping its expansion. The only existing contemporary buildings - built on the edge of the city in accordance with the local urban masterplan - are the music venue Tertre Arena, and the TYBC1 headquarters.

Work in progress...