Griffin Empire

Etymology
The name of the country comes from the mythical animal griffin, griffon, or gryphon. It is believed that this legendary creature lived in the area which is today split between principalities of Foreõsvdetrre, Färzas - Lætingmaa and Õklingsmaa. It is usually described as an animal with the body, tail, and back legs of a lion; the head and wings of an eagle; and sometimes an eagle's talons as its front feet. Because the lion was traditionally considered the king of the beasts, and the eagle the king of the birds, the griffin was thought to be an especially powerful and majestic creature. Since early period of Griffin lands, griffins were known for guarding treasures and priceless possessions.

National symbols
According to the constitution of the country there are seven national emblems of the Griffin Empire and they are as follows:
 * The Griffin flag - Griffiflýgtet
 * The flag consists of the golden cross, edged in white, superimposed on the black cross edged in white, which are superimposed on the blue background. A symbolism-interpretation says the blue is for the vaulted blue sky above the native land, the black for attachment to the soil of the homeland as well as the fate of Griffinians that fought for the liberty and unity for centuries black with worries, white for purity, hard work, and commitment and gold for success, prosperity and golden age Griffinians are living in.
 * The national anthem - Incatatosklaul (Ïńkątątöškląül) Griffin_griffin_national_animal.jpeg
 * The official motto - Rnatpopmogihjaiska tügeris (The most powerful together)
 * The Imperial coat of arms
 * The Arms depicts a shield with a golden eagle in front of a blue background, within its talons clutching a thunderbolt. The shield is surrounded by red Imperial mantle, filled with golden bees. The shield is topped by a the Imperial crown, which sits atop a golden Imperial helmet. Surrounding the shield is the the chain and pendant of the Griffin Legion of Honour with the traditional lesser coat of arms of the First Griffin Kingdom featuring three slim blue lions passant gardant with red tongues representing first three principalities to unite into one country. Crossed behind the shield are the Scepters of justice and mercy.
 * Philosophy of Griffinism
 * The national animal - Gryphon or Griffin
 * The national holiday - Day of the Empire

National Holidays
Because of its loose relationship with religion, Griffin Empire does not have a lot of religious holidays. Dyctyonarytydaign  is considered the national day and it is recognised by Griffin Constitution as the National Symbol. On these days a range of events are organised across the country, including those for children, television and radio programmes,. Grand parades and concerts are common throughout the country, with large parties both indoors and outdoors following these events. There are a lot of local holidays in different towns that celebrate the virtues that the local kirkja is devoted to.

History
Griffin's history is about three thousand years long and is extremely closely related to the Griffin royal family, since it was at the center of most important historical events, and it made most of the historical decisions or at least influenced them. From small city-states to a transcontinental empire, this country gradually developed to its present form.

Pre-Griffin era
Little is known about the specific history of the territory on which the Griffin Empire spreads today before the founding of the first states. Some light on this question is shed by a number of caves in which a large number of paintings have been found, most often depicting animals and people. Remains of tools and primitive weapons have been found throughout the country, and the highest concentrations are near or in the cities themselves. Griffin cities with the status of a metropolis are considered to be some of the oldest cities in Natia in which people live continuously. The oldest written sources are written in the primitive form of today's Griffin non-Latin script, i.e. the Hermynic script named after the city in which the tables were found. Some religious texts, some mathematical theories, as well as the first laws were successfully deciphered from these clay tablets.

The exact time at which the population began to consider themselves as Griffinians is not known, and according to historical sources, it is unlikely that these people came from abroad. The reconstruction of the ancient languages of the Effiland and Öösingimäed, as well as certain artefacts, revealed a potential connection between these peoples and the Griffins, but these theories have not been sufficiently clarified or are still in their infancy.

First Griffin states
The first appearance of the name "Griffin" occurs for a number of city-states in the territory of the present-day principalities of Foreõsvdetrre and Õklingsmaa around 700 BC. Due to very good relations, Rhemsit, Kralingslæting, Gmöt, Hermýn, and Sellola are especially attached to some original unorganized union. During this period, both Frisköptislæting and Mare Incatato were founded and became the main centres in the east and south, respectively. The first Griffin states in modern sense were founded some 300 years later. Originally, there were five independent states - Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa, Färzas, Meremaa and Lætingmaa, which were monarchies in their organization (Foreõsvdetrre even got its name from its king). These countries were inhabited by people of the same origin who used the same "proto-Griffin" language as we know from the tables found in places where there were so-called "schools of Griffinism". The first schools of Griffinism were opened around 101 BC, and were places of study of rhetoric, philosophy, mathematics, and music.

Foreõsvdetrre, although the smallest, was a very influential and combative country that significantly expanded its territory to the south - occupying the territories of today's Grifýlandet and Vasterlandet completely, and even beyond today's borders. These wars lasted until the first year of the new era, when a period of fragile peace that lasted only half a century began, and was interrupted by the War of Vasterlandet, and later by the Unification Wars.

The Vasterlandet War (51-64) is the name for the conflict between Õklingsma and Foreõsvdetrre over the newly conquered southern territories. The absolute winner of this war was Õklingsmaa who managed not only to conquer most of Foreõsvdetrre, but also to push the population towards the north. Due to this, Foreõsvdetrre spread to the north and around the year 67 AD it took the form it has to this day. Around 80, Õklingsmaa in a rebellion lost the panhandle it had in the south, which also established its southern border, which lasts to this day, and is the oldest continuous border in Natia.

Unification wars
Noticing the instability of their countries, the rulers of Õklingsmaa and Foreõsvdetrre tried to unite, but the main conflict arose over the question of who would be the joint ruler. The war between the two ruling families, called the First Unification War, lasted for 18 years, and ended with the death of all the heirs of both families. At an assembly in Rhemsit, at which peace was agreed upon, Frëdrýk Ŕëmhrąðtson, a wealthy military commander who distinguished himself as a capable leader during the war, was elected the first king of the United Griffin Land. His family was already loved and respected in Rhemsit, since they financed the construction of the first religious-political building in the city - the temple of Griffinism, which gave this philosophy the final characteristics of a religion. Shortly after the unification of the two countries, a third entered the union, this time peacefully - the Griffin king married Ąńnë Lýdwýgsån, princess of Färzas who was the sole heir to her family. With this political marriage with the only heiress to the Färzas throne, Färzas came under the Griffin crown. The first king is also important as the enactor of the famous Griffin Language Act.

Five generations later, when the United Griffin Kingdom strengthened under the strong hand of Queen Mąārà, the first attempts at further expansion of the country began. The first expeditions were successful and in 259 the Griffin Kingdom conquered the coast in the northeast. This territory was known as the Eastern Country (Eestimadnait), despite the fact that it is located west of most griffin territories. Legend has it that the queen was so cruel and vindictive that no soldier was brave enough to tell her that she was actually leading them in the opposite direction.

Shortly afterwards, King Güśąv I tried to expand the country to the northwest, which was his grandmother's original plan. Neighbouring Gvozd fought strongly against the Griffin army, but still in 300 they signed an agreement by which they gave a large part of their territory to the Griffin Kingdom. The new territory, that covered territory of today's Duchy of Gvozdisletterid, was named Sletterimaa after its lowland landscape and was considered equal to the already existing members of the union. When King Güśąv I, who had no children, nor was ever married, passed away, his grand-nephew Òn succeeded him to the throne. Òn III was the grandson of the king's late brother Pąvl who traditionally founded a new family branch called Tëmplëmánën ý Ŕëm, with their title being the counts of the county of Pöřtlán. In this form the earth lived in peace and strengthened for about 300 years. The reign of Queen Lélą is especially cited as a successful period in which the country flourished abruptly. In 602, another law on the Griffin language was passed. King Frëdrýk IV successfully updated whole legislation in 630. In the same year he married the Sealandic princess Òhæńną Güdřúsön. She was the last living descendant of her dynasty, so Meremaa (Sealand) entered the Griffin Union as the sixth province. King Frëdrýk V completed the unification of the Griffin lands by conquering Lætingmaa. This war was especially brutal since this country was the only one against unification. The Second Unification War lasted from 699 to 712.

Proclamation of the empire and further expansion
Griffin Kingdom remained peaceful for some 250 years until Frëdrýk VII failed to produce an heir which is why he was succeeded by his brother King Güśąv IX and his dynasty Knėhtýlėhttä. He chose this surname as a compound of the (Old) Griffin words knėht - soldier or knight and lėhttä - one who does everything right. His fight-loving granddaughter Hėrmýōną I changed her surname to Knėhtýlėhttä ätt Slýð, bringing the entire town of Slýtthj, ruled by her husband Týmötý Ürëmë, lord of the Slýtthj manor, into her personal ownership.

Queen Hėrmýōną I significantly expanded the country to the south, occupying the whole of Akkåville and parts of Ugaly. On September 14th, 989, she was crowned empress, proclaiming the birth of the Griffin Empire. She was an extremely successful ruler during whose time Griffin became the most influential country in Natia. She reformed the administrative division of the country as well as the Second Griffin Language Act, introduced compulsory schooling for all children between the ages of 8 and 15, and secured her influence in Lætingmaa by marrying her daughters to the princely family of this principality. Her son, Emperor Güśąv X, had a hard time balancing between wealthy noblemen, but improved his status by marrying the first Efinsk princess, establishing the first ties with the northern lands.

Emperor Frëdrýk IX further expanded the country to Sunoria and Arjastan, and his son - Emperor Güśąv XI also conquered Tohru. These territories were not originally considered part of the Griffin Empire, but Emperor Frëdrýk X changed that. He called them colonies, arranged their rights and arrangements correctly, and gave them new "Griffin" names - Vąśėrląńdėt, Ąkkå, Ąrà, Sůnörïėt and Mèšçėwïsl. Emperor Frëdrýk X, also founded the University of Kralingslæting in 1150 and signed a non-aggression pact in 1195 with the first cities in the territory of today's Tybalteva (before its declaration of independence), which began centuries of cooperation between the two peoples. Frëdrýk X, unfortunately, had no children, so he was succeeded on the throne by the son of his sister Ąńną - Güśąv XII.

Emperor Güśąv XII changed his father's surname Knétts to Dösskaslýð mëd Knét, thus securing himself as the heir of both lineages and, in addition to other imperial titles, adding his father's title of count of the county of Kneitt. Unlike his predecessor, he managed to conquer the islands in the very south of Natia, which he named Griffin Colony of Saudi Bartsen after the country of Berceniland, which previously controlled them.

First Griffin Renaissance
Despite the conquests of Emperor Güśąv XII, the rest of this dynasty had a relatively peaceful rule, and will be remembered for their great love of art. Due to his artistic spirit, Emperor Frëdrýk XIII is considered to be responsible for the beginning of the First Griffin Renaissance. This period of re birth saw flourishing of all branches of art. This was era of some of the most important discoveries that helped the country's overseas expansion later. Emperor Frëdrýk XIII also reformed the administrative organization of the Griffin Empire where he united the principalities of Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä into a single Pzyerüyölkeä, and annexed the principality of Hetimaa to the principality of Sletterimaa. During his reign Griffin colonies got a lot of their rights back. His son, Emperor Güśąv XVI was the last emperor of this dynasty and was succeeded by his brother's son - Emperor Frëdrýk XV.

The Empire at its peak
Emperor Frëdrýk XV wanted to leave a special mark on the history of his country, which is why he launched additional expeditions and conquests. During his reign, Waloria, several Yaponesian islands, and a part of Kostanovia fell under the Griffin rule. These colonies were named Gastarwiotth, Niponiisle and Delta. Emperor Güśąv XVII continued the golden age of the Griffin conquests and conquered the part of Dalisska which he called Rýgý or "horn". This colony was the main Griffin stronghold in the north until the conquest of Northoria or Nordidori. This country has traditionally had good relations with the Griffin Empire, but its good position in the northeast was of special importance for the powerful fast-growing empire aided by Bigicia.

Emperor Frëdrýk XVI successfully kept a huge territory under control, and conquered two islands near Nurdia which he named Nýtfýntmaa. At this time, the Griffin Empire was at the height of its territory and influence.

Lætingmaa Spring and Griffin Revolution
The beginning of the reign of Empress Ąńą I was quite peaceful and without further wars. This empress was loved throughout the country and beyond. She is especially notable for the opening of the Griffin Academy in Gatineau in 1666. After the sudden death of her daughter and only heiress Lýs, traditionally called Ïkmāhrïšk (translated as "landless"), her reign took an unexpected turn. Lú Blåbån, Count of Hermýn County, gained the support of some nobles who were interested in expanding their domains through a transparent theory that Lýsa’s daughter Fŕýd, who was eight at the time, would not be able to rule in the event of the current empress’s death. After dramatic speeches and protests, he manages to organize a mob that has gathered around him and occupies the imperial residence. Empress Ąńą I helplessly handed him the throne. Lú changed his name to Frëdrýk XVII and his surname to Blåbånslýðýknėht in an attempt to legitimize his actions, and then married Elina Libby, a countess from a prominent Tybaltevan family, thus insuring support from neighboring Tybalteva. However, he soon introduced tyranny and some of the most cruel draconian laws. Following his evil law changes, great unrest began in most of the colonies, but also in the principalities. When he realized that he had gone too far with his absolutism, he tried to save his reputation by opening the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in 1690, but that did not help.

The first significant revolt was called Lætingmaa Spring and represented the first phase of the Griffin Revolution. On March 17, 1691, the people of Frisköptislæting spontaneously gathered and captured most members of the local noble families. To which the emperor reacted with a siege of the city that lasted a month. During the siege of Frisköptislæting, riots also broke out in Daunsigslæting, Draakho and Girnel. Despite the rebels' efforts, Lætingmaa Spring was bloodily suppressed. From then until its culmination in 1700, riots took place across the country with varying degrees of success. The final revolt in Kralingslæting on February 1, 1700, ended with the storming of the imperial palace of Saint Belviederhee and the emperor was forced to sign a treaty renouncing all rights to the throne. However, after the first elections in the same year, the first Griffin government led by Prime Minister Jon Zdoeltson decided to return to the monarchy because of "the immense historical significance and Griffin's national identity as the land of emperors." Since then, the role of the emperor has been more or less advisory-ceremonial. Many criticized the re-election of the troubled Frëdrýk XVII and thought that Empress Ąńą I should have been re-elected instead. Unfortunately, the previous empress Ąńą I died 12 years later and never received a formal apology.

Second Griffin Renaissance
After the death of the infamous emperor, he was succeeded by Frëdrýk XVIII who was the complete opposite of his father and is considered one of the main factors for the beginning of the Second Griffin Renaissance. In addition to investing in science, economy and art, he helped reform the Griffin nobility, reformed the country's administrative division (unification of Färzas and Lætingma into one principality), reformed the Griffin language law and, most importantly, gave independence to all Griffin colonies and territories. Akkåville, Sunoria, Aryastan, Tohru and Waloria finally gained their independence. Niponiisle was returned to Yaponesia, Rýgý was returned to Dalisska, Nordidori was returned to Leonesia & St. Lotus, Delta was returned to Kostanovia, Saudi Bertsens were returned to Berceniland, and Nýtfýntma was given to Svobodnia.

During his reign, 12 prime ministers who supported him changed, and he was a favorite of the people. His successor Ana II was a daughter of his son Frąńs and grand-grand daughter of Empress Ąńą I which was the reason she returned the surname to Trëskaslýð æð Knét and followed in her grandfather's footsteps – she reformed the education system and was a great patron and benefactor. The style of Empress Ana II was very recognizable and her influence on fashion was so great that her dress from the Dyctyonarytydaign ball from 1860 is considered the main reason for the beginning of the era of griffin domination in world fashion.

Contemporary history
Gustav XVIII, the son of Empress Ana II, was a great villain. His absolutely evil views on almost everything were supported during the first four years by the 33rd Griffin Prime Minister - Giorgi Ilför Pýttýlgvozd prýnsýn ätt Sletterimaa. The rest of his reign was marked by the Republican government which is why he took part in several unsuccessful coup attempts to regain absolute power. He openly advocated for very backwards and questionable laws, and considered the Griffinians a superior nation that should rule all its neighbours and beyond. He refused to attend the Griffin Empire's first participation in the Olympic Games. He tried to stop the inauguration of the Ministry of Culture as well as the organization of the Ą Anwagrdasde - an award in the field of art, which also failed. His personality and connection with a number of problematic people greatly influenced the adoption of new rules on limiting the sphere of influence of the emperor and the adoption of the Law on the Separation of the Religion and the State (known in Griffin as Tenurapf zja sit Ajltläharlibragarovje).

In order to distance herself from him, his daughter Erzjebetthj changed her surname to Kmöśsýh ätt Slýð Dąlkąlër, which the Griffin royal family still bears today. She participated in the founding of Griffin National Television, Æ Anwagrdasde film awards, and was on the commission that drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which she eventually personally ratified. U ovom periodu Griffinsko Carstvo jača ekonomski. Emperor Gustav XIX was a successful architect who in 1977 wrote Buildings Height Law which first passed in the principality of Foreõsvdetrre. Under this law, new buildings over 37 meters were allowed to be built. A year later, at a conference in Hermýn, he signed a document reforming the Griffin Language Law. In 1982 he opened the first Musicquedagn Festival, and in 1986 the Ilzeh Museum. He was the organizer and patron of the celebration of the eight-hundredth anniversary of the friendship between the Griffin Empire and Tybalteva in 1995. He personally lobbied for the country to join the NBU and participate in the WLSC. During this era, Griffin Empire became the 2nd exporter of films in the world, and for the first time Griffin Empire ranked 2nd in the Environmental Performance Index. The so-called "Eestimadnait era" is especially important, when during the five elections, 4 prime ministers with different titles from the principality of Eestimadnait changed.

In subsequent years Griffin royal family became increasingly influential, reversing a large number of rights they had lost in the 1700s. Most emperors and empresses carried out their reigns without major scandals. This tradition was broken by Frëdrik XX when he married three days after the death of his first wife Empress Lídia, who was originally from Pyreica. In the dramatic development of the situation, the new Empress Dianna, a thirty-year-old Princess of Effiland, became pregnant by in vitro fertilization with at the time eighty-nine-year-old Frëdrik XX and gave birth to twins - today's Empress Ana Klara and her brother Henrik lord of the manor of the city of Anastasij. Despite the gruesome behaviour of Emperor Frëdrik XX, both empresses were popular with the people, as is the current Empress Ana Klara.

Geography
Griffin Empire has a wide variety of topographical sets and natural landscapes. Large parts of the country were raised during several tectonic episodes the Prhöitsc Massif and the Massif Centralerneiska ranges were formed. These massifs delineate several basins such as the Sletterimaa basin in the southwest and the Kralingslæting basin in the north, the latter including several areas of particularly fertile ground. Various routes of natural passage, such as the Hermýna valley, allow easy communications. The Krigtscý mountains are much younger and have less eroded forms. At 4,810.45 metres above sea level, Wytdnimdjer is the highest point in the country. Although 60% of municipalities are classified as having seismic risks, these risks remain moderate.

The coastlines offer contrasting landscapes: mountain ranges, coastal cliffs and wide sandy plains. Griffin has an extensive river system consisting of the four major rivers Hermýna, the Jalina, the Vereberjsej, and the Drinsörwõt.

Location and borders
Griffin territory and population is situated in Northern Norigin. It is bordered by the Klejiskýbæijj (Bay of Tybalteva) in the north, Mere Griffiniskaja (the Griffin Sea) in the west and the in the southwest. Its land borders consist of Ujedinjeni Gvozd in the northeast, Sarpovia in the east, and Ugaly in the southwest. Most of Griffin land borders are roughly delineated by natural boundaries and geographic features. Griffin Empire includes no coastal islands.

Climate
The Griffin territory is relatively large, so the climate is not uniform, giving rise to the following climate nuances:
 * The hot-summer climate is found along the Gulf of Incatato. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet. Cities affected by this climate: Arlingleht, Mare Incatato, Rakozsit, Salta, Tevs and Zonpolah.
 * The humid subtropical climate is found in the Hermýna and Drinsörwõt's inland plains. Summers are hot and wet, while winters are cool and damp. Cities affected by this climate: Göldtsit, Hermýn, and Valensingslæting.Terrainmaptryingtofix0_-_Copy_-_Copy.png
 * The oceanic climate is found around the coasts of the Bay of Böskvitingarr and inland. Summers are pleasantly warm and wet, while winters are cool and damp. Cities affected by this climate: Anastasij, Daunsigslæting, Ejmjenspalajtsc, Filipolis, Frisköptislæting, Girnel, Kralingslæting, Läähtisit, Nýtdainsk, Örnalthingää, Pavlopolis, Planigslæting and Pyetsit.
 * The subalpine climate  is found in all the mountainous regions between 1000 and 2000 meters a.s.l. Summers are cool, short and wet, while winters are very cold and snowy.
 * The alpine tundra climate is found in all the mountainous regions, generally above 2000 or 2500 meters a.s.l. Summers are chilly and wet, while winters are extremely cold, long and snowy. Mountain affected by this climate is Krrudsdnim.
 * The ice cap climate is found in all the mountainous regions that have a glacier. Summers are cold and wet, while winters are extremely cold, long and snowy. Mountains affected by this climate: Sübmonss and Wytdnimdjer.

Administrative division
Although Griffin Empire is a unitary sovereign country, its historic seven principalities have always had a degree of autonomy in dealing with their respective internal problems. This type of internal organisation goes back to the very founding of the country. It has changed over time in number and level of autonomy, but today includes 7 principalities which are the principal administrative districts in the country. These are divided into subdivisions of duchies or regions, counties, metropolises and municipalities. Bound together in a political union, each principality holds a certain amount of governmental jurisdiction over a separate and defined geographic territory and shares its sovereignty with the national government. Due to this shared sovereignty, Griffinians are citizens both of the Empire and of the principality in which they reside. Principality citizenship and residency are flexible, and no government approval is required to move between principalities, except for persons restricted by certain types of court orders (such as paroled convicts and children of divorced spouses who are sharing custody).

Historical administrative divisions
The first Griffin state was created by the unification of three principalities (Färzas, Foreõsvdetrre and Õklingsmaa) from several then independent Griffin states. In order to facilitate the management of the unified kingdom, as well as keep the country stable, the first Griffin king - King Frëdrýk I allowed the three princely families to continue to manage their territories on local issues. During this period, the principalities were divided into smaller regions, often called countries that did not have a specific administrative significance. The surrounding cities were ruled by aristocratic families with the title of count, so these territories were called counties. Each new principality that entered the union would automatically receive the highest degree of autonomy, following the example of the original three.

The newly conquered western territories were proclaimed as the principality of Eestimadnait in 259 AD. After the victory in the war with Gvozd in 300 AD, the northeastern principality of Sletterimaa entered the union, while in 630 AD Meremaa was included in the country peacefully - by marriage between the Sealandic queen Òhæńną Güdřúsön and the Griffin king Frëdrýk IV. Lætingmaa is the only Griffin country that resisted unification, but was successfully conquered in 712, thus completing the unification of all territories inhabited by Griffins.

During this period some of the principalities were in a slightly different form than today - Eestimadnait was a vast territory encompassing the entire western part of the country including the present-day principality of Pzyerüyölkeä; Sletterimaa was smaller and included only the present-day duchy of Gvozdisletterid; and Färzas and Lætingmaa were two separate principalities. After being crowned empress, the first Griffin Empress Hėrmýōną I successfully implemented a reform of the country's administrative organization. She divided the principality of Eestimadnait into three smaller ones - Pzyerimaa, Hetimaa and Yölkeä, and declared the historical regions as duchies and gave them a certain autonomy within their principalities. In this way, the counts, dukes and princes controlled each other and prevented the abuse of their positions.

The second reformation of the administrative division was carried out in 1424 by Emperor Frëdrýk XIII. He united the principalities of Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä into a single Pzyerüyölkeä, and annexed the principality of Hetimaa to the principality of Sletterimaa. All three of these were now duchies.

The thirteenth Griffin Prime Minister - Aaron Nordison hjurtsok ätt Nordisit and Emperor Frëdrýk XVIII in 1769 carried out the last reform of the internal organization of the country to this day. To prevent separatist movements in the east of the country and to make it easier to control them, they united Färzas and Lætingma into one principality. They also carried out a reformation of the nobility where, in addition to accurately defining hierarchy and rules, they were given back certain powers and a role in local politics that they had lost in the 1700 revolution. To date, the Griffin Empire has 7 principalities divided into 19 duchies that include a large number of urban municipalities or counties and rural municipalities or estates.

Subdivisions of the principalities
Each Griffin principality is divided into duchies. The duchies are of exclusively historical importance, which is why they have no authority or function except for statistical purposes and tourism. Each duchy is (was) traditionally ruled by an individual from a ducal family. Duke is a hereditary title. Dukes no longer have legislative power on duchy level, however they are politically active - they directly claim the right to membership in the parliament of their principality and the Upper House of the national parliament. Most left-wing parties strongly criticize this system and are actively advocating the complete abolition of the title, and then the territorial division itself.

The lowest division of the country is into municipalities called counties if they include cities and estates if they include villages. Today, municipalities have local assemblies and mayors who have the primary role, as well as counts and lords who, thanks to their titles, have a direct influence on the political life of their local communities. They can be elected by their duke in the princely parliament and the Upper House as well. A special case includes large cities and cities with the status of a metropolis that include several municipalities. They usually have a council and a mayor at the level of each of the municipalities and at the level of the entire city. Kralingslæting has the most municipalities - as many as twelve.

Foreõsvdetrre
Foreõsvdetrre (English: Foreosovdetre or Kralingslating) is the most populous of the 7 principalities of Griffin Empire. It is located in the central part of the country and often called the Kralingslætingiskaja Madnait ("The land of Kralingslæting") because it includes the city of Kralingslæting. Foreõsvdetrre is densely populated and economically important, it has an official estimated population of 14,575,355 (39.8% of the population of the country) and accounts for nearly 40% of the Griffin Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Besides the landmarks of Kralingslæting, the region has many important historic sites, including the Palace of Saint Belviederhee and the Palace of Blaaföntanshke, as well as the most-visited tourist attraction in Griffin Empire, Palace of Brobdingngang. The poverty rate in Foreõsvdetrre is 0.9%. Housing prices have pushed the less affluent outside the city.

Traditionally this principality is divided into two historic regions or duchies, named after the only two cities in the principality - Kralingslaeting and Rhemsit. These two regions are somewhat culturally different and speak different dialects (old Griffin based Kralingsletingian hard r dialect and old Griffin based Rhemish soft r dialect). Rhemsit with its 182,460 inhabitants is 26th city in the country by population and is known as the city where historically Griffin kings and emperors were crowned.

Meremaa
Meremaa (English: Sealand or Meremaa) is the second most populous principality of the seven administrative regions of Griffin Empire, the far southwestern. This region is famous for the Mere Griffiniskaja (Griffin Sea or Griffin Riviera - hence the name "Mere-maa" literally Sea-land), which spans the glamorous cities of Tevs, Salta, Aigntibt, Jonattpinn, Hjemtilëiyl, Frësit, Sagnrafa, Sagnmaxa and Sagntrappä. It is devided into three regions: North Sealand on the northern part of the coast, Upper Sealand or the inland part of the country and Tevsland which surrounds the metropolis of Tevs. Dialects spoken here are New Griffin based, use "English R" and correspond to the three historic regions or duchies.

Its capital is Mare Incatato, the third biggest city in Griffin Empire, popular tourist destination and historic university city, and to this day remains the most important educational centre in the region. It borders Pzyerüyölkeä and Õklingsmaa, as well as Ugaly. The largest cities in the region are Mare Incatato, Tevs, Salta and Zonpolah, each with a population exceeding 540,000. Along with Mare Incatato, Tevs is the second most populous city in the principality with a population of about 1,003,947 which means that Meremaa is the only principality with two cities with metropolis status.

The principality is also made internationally popular with Hjemtilëiyl which, though not a large city (population of 73,868), hosts the annual Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival which has highly popularized the region. Also, Arlingleht has become renowned as the city in which many famous paintors lived and Salta as a large military harbour on the coast of Griffin Sea, with the Griffin naval base placed there.

Eestimadnait
Eestimadnait (English: Eastland or Estland) is the third most populous principality of Griffin Empire and despite its name it is located in the westernmost part of the country, spanning the west and northwest. During the Griffin expansion, one group of conquerors mistook this area as eastern to the Griffin main domain, and named it East-land. The name has stuck ever since, but some political parties are interested in getting this changed. The names that are being considered are Weestimadnait (literally "the land of the west") and its' historic nickname Kashlaani (literally "the fortresses").

Its largest city, Pyetsit is its capital and has the metropolis status. The principality is divided into three regions or duchies - Northern, Central and Southern; it has 2 big cities, 1 middle city and 25 small cities, among which the most important after Pyetsit are Filipolis (884,275 inhabitants), Sania (679,866), Busk (407,295), and Vilabradwõt (75,735), as well as 11 major clusters. The growth of its population, particularly marked on the coast, makes this one of the most attractive areas economically in Griffin Empire; the new region outperforms the Foreõsvdetrre and Meremaa in demographic dynamism.

After Foreõsvdetrre, Eestimadnait is the premier Griffin region in research and innovation, with five universities (Pyetsit, Filipolis, Vilabradwõt, Poatiyë and Pausksit) and several Övrahtõ. The agricultural region of Natia with the greatest turnover, it is the Griffin region with the most tourism jobs, as it has three of the four historic resorts on the Griffin Norigin coast. Its economy is based on agriculture and viticulture (vineyards of Pyetsit and Koniackäplaitsc), tourism, a powerful aerospace industry, digital economy and design, parachemical and pharmaceutical industries, financial sector (Mailddt is the fourth-largest financial center in the nation, specialising in mutual insurance companies), and industrial ceramics (Eestimadnaitiskaja Pustigslæting).

All three regions have their distinctive dialects, all of the new Griffin based with Northern and Central Eastlandish dialects using "hard R" and Southern Estlandish using "English R".

Õklingsmaa
Õklingsmaa (English: Okley, Okle or Okleland) is the largest principality of Griffin Empire located in southeast part of the country. The region has a population of 3,536,143. Hermýn is its, largest and most important city, as well as capital. It is also the second biggest city in the Griffin Empire. Because of its size, Õklingsmaa has extremely diverse geographical, sociological, economic, and cultural regions. The eastern and southern parts of the principality are in the Natian Alps and historically are considered as a Dnimdjermadnait duchy region (literally "the land of the mountains"). The highest peak is Wytdnimdjer. The central part of the region comprises the river valleys of the Hermýna and the Drinsörwõt. The confluence of these two rivers is at Hermýn which makes its own duchy. The western part of the principality contains the start of the Massif Centralerneiska mountain range which makes two duchies - Vasterlandet (literally "wastelands") and Griffýlandet (literally "the land of Griffinians"). The principality also borders or contains major lakes such as Lake Üomofe and Lake Emozý. The Eltdesh flows through the southwest portion of the principality, where it has carved the deepest gorge in Natia.

Four dialects are spoken here - old Griffin based H dialects in Hermýn and Dnimdjermadnait, new Griffin based H dialect in Vasterlandet and new Griffin based hard R dialect in Griffýlandet.

Õklingsmaa is a prosperous region and its economy is second in size only to Foreõsvdetrre. This can be attributed to the diversity of the production in different sectors. The region is one of the Four Motors for Natia.

Industry, in particular:
 * Light engineering and high-tech
 * Mechanical engineering in the area of Emozý
 * Precision machining in the area of Groozoz

Services, in particular:
 * High-tech industries, nanotechnology, biotechnology especially in Planigslæting.
 * Optic and design in Sellola
 * Tourism with the mountains (for skiing), Hermýn and Planigslæting (for culture) and the Eltdesh (adventure sports/camping) particularly popular
 * Education, with major universities in Hermýn, Planigslæting and Sellola.

Sletterimaa
Sletterimaa (literally „the land of fields“, English: Sletterland) is the northernmost principality of Griffin Empire. Its biggest city as well as capital is Nýtdainsk which has the metropolis status. With 3,145,852 inhabitants it is the fourth most populous region in the Empire. Other major cities are Legislæting, Presörsit, Pavlopolis, Ejmjenspalajtsc and Klej which serves as a major economic/transportation hub with Tybalteva; this makes Sletterimaa the closest Griffin connection to the friendly nation of Tybalteva. Just like its name suggests, the principality is very flat and includes everything from the long sand beaches of the Hetimaa bay in the west to the vast forests and pastures of the Tiarhis in the east and down to the palace of Skjanturing or Petrföndingar near Foreõsvdetrre and vineyards of the border with Färzas - Lætingmaa to the south. The principality is divided into two regions -western parts of the principality being the duchy of Hetimaa (literally "the hot land") and western parts the duchy of Gvozdisletterid (literally "the fields near the Gvozd" nodding to the shared history with Ujedinjeni Gvozd).

Historically, the region of Sletterimaa has a strong and proud cultural identity. Its cultural heritage includes some of the most extraordinary Gothic kirkjas (Ejmjenspalajtsc and Bövësit cathedrals or Ars basilica), distinctive local cuisine (including panhaaghen, flamöpooŕo, marotshjaŕta), beer (including from Pëŕklerk brewery) and traditional games and sports, such as the lopdescirq (ancestor of tennis), as well as tantsidsletteriska' and its own bagpipes, called the kehto. Traditionally western parts of the principality are more progressive, and eastern more conservative which is also reflected in the way of speaking where the dialect spoken in Hetimaa region is a new Griffin based hard R dialect which is very different than Gvozdsletterish old Griffin soft R dialect.

The villages of Sletterimaa have a distinct character, with their houses made of red bricks, often accented with a "lace" of white bricks. It is arguably the birthplace of Natian Gothic architecture, housing six of the world's greatest examples of Natian Gothic religious buildings, which span the history of Gothic architecture in its entirety.

The unemployment rate is higher than the national average. The economy is essentially led by the service sector, which employs 75% of the working population, followed by manufacturing (23%) and agriculture (2%).

Pzyerüyölkeä
Pzyerüyölkeä (English: Pzeryolkey or Pzieryokley) is the central-western principality with its centre in its biggest city – Göldtsit. It is the third smallest region in the Empire, and has a population of 2,628,927. It has a coast on the west and is neighbored by all of Griffin principalities except Färzas - Lætingmaa. The biggest cities of the principality are Göldtsit, Rakozsit, Läähtisit, Plosnatsit and Pustigslæting. Three historical regions or duchies of the principality (Pzyerimaa, Pzyerimeremaa and Yölkeä) have been recognized as a linguistic and cultural concepts since the Middle Ages. It was the last principality to join the Griffin Empire as it was essentially created by breaking free from Eestimadnait. While all its dialects are new Griffin based, Pzyerimaa and Yölkeä have very distinct hard R dialect, with dialect in Pzyerimeremaa being closer to Sealandic dialects uses "English R".

The principality is dominated by vineyards, and the region has been an important winemaking centre for several centuries. The region is the largest contributor to the Natia's glut (dominance of supply over demand) of wine known as the wine lake. It is also home of a great variety of cheeses (like Roktfort, Blöotovert, Kæbekö, Shjantaal, Förmdaæmbært, Lægjool, Pælærrdæn, Sæntnktr, Sælæ) and a great diversity of wines such as Göldtsitiskaja, Roon wine, Gæyæk wine, Sæmijo wine, Blænktlæmæn, Müskæat, Pröwæns wine, Kæhærrs wine, Iuransæn. Alcohols such as Pæstis and Mærribrayrs or brandies such as, Armangg, and Koniackäplaitsctrhekh are produced in the area.

Färzas – Lætingmaa
Färzas – Lætingmaa (English: Farzas-Latingland) is an administrative region and the historical principality in eastern Griffin Empire. The region sits astride three water basins (Jalina, Muusa and Drening), spanning the 2nd largest area in Griffin Empire, and includes two mountain ranges (Wöskileng and Lati). It shares borders with Ujedinjeni Gvozd, Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa, and Sletterimaa. It has a population of 1,957,940 inhabitants, the lowest in the country. The administrative capital and largest city, by far, is Frisköptislæting. It is the only capital with no metropolis status. Other major cities include: Daunsigslæting, Õrnalthingää, Anastasij and Girnel.

The East of Griffin has a rich and diverse culture, being situated at a crossroads between the Griffin and Natian worlds which is reflected in the variety of languages spoken there (Griffin, Latingish, Gvozdian, Biflovatian, Pyreican). Most of today's Färzas duchy was considered "Eastern" as early as the 8th century, when it constituted the southern part of the Griffin territory of Fąrsąsýmądn. Färzas fairs played a significant role in the economy of medieval Natia as well. Lætingmaa thrived in the sphere of influence of the Central Natian Powers for most of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The region is home to distinctive traditions (the celebration of Wisdom Day, Christmas markets, or traditions involving the Life and Death Celebration hare in Lætingmaa). Both regions of the principality are furthermore subject to local law for historical reasons. With a long industrial history as well and its agriculture and tourism (arts, gastronomy, sightseeing etc.), the East of Griffin is one of the top economic producing regions in the country.

Despite being divided into just two duchies, there are four old Griffin based dialects spoken here. Latingish dialect is a so called "SHJ-TJ" dialect and it is almost considered as a different language. North Farzasic dialect is soft R based and close to the Gvozdsletterish dialect. Central or Proper Farzasic is a "H dialect" close to one spoken in Dnimjermadnait and East Farzasic is another "SHJ-TJ" dialect similar to Latingish but not as much different than Griffin R.P.

Politics
The Griffin Empire has a multi-party political system. In theory, the number of competing political parties is large enough that in order to participate in the exercise of power, each individual party must be willing to negotiate with one or more others with the aim of forming coalitions. The dominant French political parties are also characterised by a noticeable degree of intra-party factionalism, making each of them effectively a coalition in itself. There are usually two stable coalitions present: the left-wing SOP-LEP-GPP coalition and the centrist-right-wing REP-GRP coalition, but the Democratic Party usually has the largest number of deputies on its own.

Traditionally, Old Griffin is language of politics in Griffin Empire, and it is very common (especially for right wing oriented parties) that it is used in debates and discussions. Courts in Griffin Empire use Old Griffin language exclusively.

Government and Law
Griffin Empire is a unitary state under a constitutional monarchy. Empress Anna Clara I is a monarch and head of state. The monarch was restricted to fewer rights, but in recent years the crown has regained a lot of influence and powers previously lost in the 1700s. The Constitution of the Griffin Empire is semi-codified and contains about 300,000 words. Nevertheless, law-making is relatively flexible and parliament can implement “constitutional reform” by simply passing parliamentary acts, and thus has the political power to change or repeal almost all written or unwritten elements of the constitution. No parliament can pass laws that future parliaments cannot change.

Griffin Empire is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Parliament (Rykstadtk') is sovereign and consists of the Lower House (Gövnarmendt), the Upper House (Senaat) and the Monarch. The main business of the Parliament takes place in two houses, but the royal consent is needed for the law to be officially implemented. For the general elections (Lower House elections), the country is divided into 192 constituencies, each represented by three members of parliament (566 in total). Each member of parliament may be a member of parliament for a maximum of ten years. The Democratic and Republican parties are traditionally the largest parties (by number of deputies) in the Lower House. The Prime Minister is the head of government in the Griffin Empire. Since the first elections in 1700, the prime minister has, according to the constitutional convention, been the chief deputy and head of other ministers appointed by him. The prime ministers are appointed by the monarch, and they are usually the deputies who win the most votes in the elections for the Lower House. He also has the role of chief adviser to the monarch.

The Senate or Senaat is the upper house of the Griffin Parliament. The members of the senate are the president (prösidantdniq), seven griffin princes, seven governors (kantselardniqe) - one for each of the principalities and an additional 333 members of the "volunteers" (ėlskbíīdæsėnātdnïq). Volunteer members are members of one of the princely parliaments (Kantselaplatse) who voluntarily apply to be in the senate. These are usually the higher nobility - the dukes and members of the regional parliaments who won the largest number of votes. The Upper House carefully studies, reviews and amends the draft laws approved by the Lower House. It generally cannot prevent the adoption of laws, except in certain limited circumstances. One of the roles of the Upper House is to convey the conclusions from the princely parliaments to the Lower House, as well as to propose solutions.

Princely parliaments are local political forums where political issues are discussed at the provincial level. They cannot adopt, repeal or change laws, except in certain cases such as the administrative division of the principality or its symbols. These parliaments have 100 members each - 50 from the ranks of nobles and 50 who are elected. Dukes are permanent members and they appoint other deputies from the ranks of nobles - usually counts of counties of important and larger cities.

The Supreme Court (Ůx-tėnūr or Tenur ot Õõtlaliudlaringar) is the final court of appeal in the Griffin Empire for all civil andriminal cases. It also hears cases of the greatest public or constitutional importance affecting the whole population. The Council of State (Kounsildt Etatiskaja) is a governmental body that acts both as a legal adviser of the executive branch and as the supreme court for administrative justice.

Nobility
The nobility in the Griffin Empire is an extremely important social class that is of historical significance and actively participates in the political life of the country. The organization of the Griffin nobility is very precise, with a incisively determined hierarchy of six titles, and rules that must be followed in order for an individual to become a nobleman and for existing nobles to preserve their title. All titles in this system are hereditary and apply to the entire family. If a person earns a title, his spouse and their descendants receive the title at the same time. Each person with the title of lower nobility can participate in different levels of government. The higher nobility - princely and ducal families elect their representative to precisely defined positions in the princely parliaments and the national parliament.

In order to become a nobleman, one must meet three important conditions: to have Griffin citizenship; to own land which is of historical significance for the Griffin Empire which means that it was at the center of some (important) historical event, or is currently the centre of an important branch of the economy; and to deliver a proof that a sufficient number of people on that land and / or in the surroundings depend on ones influence. This enables the acquisition of the lowest title - the title of lord (zalklev). From the lowest title one can advance to the higher nobility by entering into marriages, and by inheriting the positions of older families whose main branch has been extinguished. The current families belonging to the higher nobility have been in continuity in these positions since the Reformation of the Nobility in 1769.

Some noble families were formed by the separation of secondary branches from the main line of the Griffin royal family. Most often, these dynasties would receive the titles of high nobility, but that is not the rule. A change of surname is also a frequent occurrence in order to sound more similar to the Griffin royal family, thus indirectly alluding to the connection with the emperor.

Hierarchy of the Griffin Nobility
At the top of the pyramid is a kral translated as emperor or empress who also bears the title of kraldniq translated as king or queen, you will learn more about this phenomenon and what it actually means in the last part of this special. The title of king or queen is a traditional title which, in the event of independence of other principalities, the royal family claims the original three - Foreõsvdetrre, Õklingsmaa and Färzas as their new domain.

Beneath the king is prýnsýn, a title that can be translated as prince or princess. Despite this translation, it does not refer to the children of the royal family (who are assigned one of the titles at birth), but refers to members of royal families of the seven griffin principalities. These families have a long tradition and were mostly either the ruling dynasties of the Griffin principalities before unification or separated from the ruling imperial dynasty. These are some of the most influential people, not only of their principalities and Griffin Empire, but also of Natia.

Under the direct influence of the principalities are their historical regions called duchies. The nobility of this level bears the title of fihfitsleht or duke. There are a total of 19 griffin ducal families.

The two lowest titles are hjurtsok and zalklev, the former of which is usually higher in hierarchy than the latter, but this is not the rule. Hjurtsok is usually translated as count or countess, and it specifically refers to families that historically ruled cities or smaller territories that were not large enough to be duchies. Zalklev is usually translated as lord or lady, and refers to the rulers of smaller towns, villages, or just larger manorial estates.

Demographics
Griffin Empire has an estimated population of 34.5 million people. It has a relatively high rate of natural population growth. In recent years, the fertility rate declined slightly to 1.93 children per woman. The average age is 35.6 years. Average life expectancy at birth is 82.2 years, one of the highest in the world.

Griffinians are people from the Griffinic group and speak Griffin language which is not related to any of languages of its neighbouring countries. Six cases declination system, very long words, consonant-clusters and vowel rich phonology are some of the most recognizable characteristics of the language.

Regional identity is a very important element of Griffin culture. The term "regionalism" is generally seen as a synonym of "federalism" and the opposite of "nationalism". In some regions there are movements or parties campaigning for independence, but there is no wider support for them.

Major cities
Griffin Empire is a highly urbanized country. Its cities are divided into 5 groups - metropolises (major cities with over 1 million inhabitants), big cities (500 thousand - 1 million inhabitants), middle cities (100-500 thousand inhabitants) and small cities (under 100 thousand inhabitants). Every settlement under 10 thousand inhabitants is considered as a village. Currently there are 7 cities with the metropolis status. Meremaa is the only principalitiy with 2 metropolises and Frisköptislæting is the only capital of a principality that is not a metropolis.

Language
Griffin Language (Griffiniskaja langua) is a Griffinic language of the West Natian branch spoken in Griffin Empire. It is the official language of the nation, spoken natively by about 33.1 million people. Griffin language has had 5 different versions through its history - first, older, middle, old and new Griffin languages and because of the well written history of the language it is possible to learn and speak all of the 5 versions. In the early years of the country, Griffin king Frëdrýk I demanded of his scholars to go throughout his country and study the language and make an universal rule book so that the nation could speak one standardized language. The first grammar, dictionary and orthography were written in the year 102. ad and they are known as the "First Act of the Griffn Language". Today original versions of these three books are kept at the library of the Brobdingngagng castle. For the 500th anniversary of the law, the books were revised, updated and rewritten, and published as the "The second Language Act". This way, by updating the books it is easy to see how the language changed through the years. In the year 1001 the act was updated again as "Update of the 2nd Language Law", but the most important update is the 4th one - “The official reformation of the Language” in 1787 which marked the begining of the new era in the Griffin linguistics. Many rules were changed so the language would be easier both to speak and write. This version of the language is considered as the language of music, theology, the sciences, medicine, and law, so it is not common to see it used even today. The latest language update happened in 1978 when the Congress of the Griffin Language Faculties was held in Hermýn, where they agreed upon the new more simplified rules of the language published in the final act “The Words of Hermyn”.

There are 21 regional dialects that are classified into 5 groups based on the dominant pronunciation of the sound /r/ as well as local grammar exceptions, and vocabulary. Main influence for 9 out of 21 dialects is old Griffin language which means that they usually have bigger phonology, more cases and tenses, and are usually harder to understand for non native speaker. Other dialects are new Griffin based and main differences are usually just phonology based.

Griffin language is thought to be a language isolate, but recent reconstructions of old Effinsk gave some positive results that these two might be related. Modern Effinsk is easy for Griffinians to learn since it follows somewhat similar patterns, but these languages are still unintelligible.

Text sample
Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Griffin:

''Allet ot liudotre bornääru libertõdetkrafftiska et saimiska pop sit værrdiggklehtot et sit blefmagingot l'cest de onerei. Biy gievhavn onereilt förrshtooved et avarnung et onerei shoodau to meimaklu deres itmiszsam edn tüll dos pop to soulstiyelilt ot brõõdermanhuafftotr.''

(All people are born free and equal in their dignity and rights. They are given reason and conscience and they shall create their relationships to one another according to the spirit of brotherhood.)

Religion
Griffin Empire is a secular country in which freedom of religion is a constitutional right. Griffin religious policy is based on the concept of ajltläharlibragar, a strict separation of religion and state under which public life is kept completely secular. According to the latest census, 51.1% of the total population of Griffin Empire was following Griffinism, 39.6% had no religion, 5.6% were Christians, 2.5% were followers of other faiths, and the remaining 0.4% were undecided about their faith. Estimates of the number of Christians in the Empire vary widely. The Griffin Ministry of the Interior estimated the total number of people of Christian background to be between 2.5 and 3 million (8–10%).

Griffinism has been the predominant religion for more than two millennia, though it is not as actively practised today as it was. Among the 47,000 religious buildings in Griffin Empire, 94% are Griffin kirkja or katedraal. After alternating between religion influenced and secular governments, in 1905 Griffin Empire passed the 1905 law on the Separation of the Religion and the State, which established the principle of ajltläharlibragar. To this day, the government is prohibited from recognizing any specific right to a religious community. It recognizes religious organisations according to formal legal criteria that do not address religious doctrine. Conversely, religious organisations are expected to refrain from intervening in policy-making. Certain groups, such as Scientology are considered cults ("bepaore" in Griffin), and therefore do not have the same status as recognized religions in Griffin Empire. Bepaor is considered a pejorative term in Griffin Empire.

Griffinism
Griffinism is a philosophical and religious tradition of Griffin origin which emphasises living according to the virtues, principles and personal goals and desires, the most important of them being independence and self-reliance. Griffinism differs from the most of religions by not emphasising existence of God, rigid rituals and social order, but is similar in the sense that it is a teaching about the various disciplines for becoming one with the unplanned rhythms of the universe. Griffinism ethics emphasise naturalness, simplicity, spontaneity, compassion, art, courage, love, unity and wisdom and all of Griffin temples are dedicated to one of these virtues or like the Griffinism teachings name them „delicate emotional and mental states“.

Kirkja is a building used for Griffin religious activities and the term is used exclusively to refer to the physical building itself. In traditional architecture, a kirkja interior is often structured in the shape of a cross, but is not a rule. Towers or domes are often added with the intention of directing the eye of the viewer towards the heavens and inspiring a range of thoughts and emotions in visitors. Kirkja is a general gathering-place by the communities in which they were located, hosting such events as guild meetings, concerts, banquets, mystery plays, and fairs. It could be said that Griffinism and its temples were the first codes and institutions of law in the Griffin lands.

Katedraal is usually a bigger temple (kirkja) housing the seat of a main priest. Both words katedraal and kirkja take their name from Christianity and their architecture, design and style are inspired by Christian churches.

Zvhodaliuddniq is priest or priestess, a religious leader authorized to perform the rituals of the religion. They also live according to a certain way of life, focusing on resolving existential questions about the human condition. One of main duties of zvhodaliuddniq is to challenge what is thought to be common sense, not to stop asking questions, and to re-examine the old ways of thought. He or she may have the duty to hear confessions periodically, give marriage counseling, provide prenuptial counseling, give spiritual direction, or visit those confined indoors, such as the sick in hospitals and nursing homes. However these practices, except giving spiritual direction, are very rare since the introduction of the secular law and its institutions.

Education
Education in Griffin Empire has a long history, the first classifiable higher-education institution having been established a school of Griffinism as early as 101 BC, with numerous other religious schools following suit over time. In 1001, under the rule of Hermione I education became obligatory for children aged 8-15 years. In the 1150 the University of Kralingslæting was opened. In the 1850s reformation of the education changed the system to what it is today. The education system is made of up of three levels:


 * Primary school - compulsory and free for all children from ages 6 through 15 and lasts for nine years in three three-year cycles (ages 6–9; 9–12 and 12–15).
 * Secondary levels – also compulsory and free. It is provided by general and technical secondary schools, where studies begin at the age of 15 and last for three or four years. Most children in Griffin Empire start school when they are six years old and finish high school when they are eighteen or nineteen. Students who have graduated from general secondary schools (Gýmnasium) get the Ruutthjferfeilerring and opt to enroll in any faculty or college after passing a qualification examination given by the institution while students who graduated from technical schools get a diploma.
 * University education - organised according to the system of transferable points and has three levels:
 * The undergraduate courses typically last for three to four years and bring 180 to 240 ECTS points. Upon the completion of the undergraduate courses, students are awarded the title of Bachelor of Arts or Science.
 * Postgraduate courses, which last for two years, carry 120 ECTS points and award the degree of Master of Art or Science.
 * PhD courses can be taken after completing a postgraduate university course. They typically last three years, and the academic title of Doctor of Science or Doctor of Arts is awarded upon completion.

The university can also offer postgraduate specialist courses which last for one to two years, by which one can acquire the title of a specialist in a certain specialist field such as medicine. In accordance with laws and regulations, higher education institutions are funded by the corresponding principality authorities. The public universities in Griffin Empire are named after the major cities near which they are located, followed by a numeral if there are several. Kralingslæting, for example, has 13 universities, labelled Kralingslæting I to XIII.

Health
The Griffin health care system is one of universal health care largely financed by government national health insurance. In its 2000 assessment of world health care systems, the World Health Organization found that Griffin provided the "close to best overall health care" in the world. The Griffin healthcare system was ranked first natiawide by the Natia Health Organization. Usually, the Empire spends around 11.6% of GDP on health care. Approximately 77% of health expenditures are covered by government funded agencies.

Care is generally free for people affected by chronic diseases (kroonikalernetõlõrõtschwedniqe) such as cancer, AIDS or cystic fibrosis. Average life expectancy at birth is 78 years for men and 85 years for women. Griffin have the reputation of being one of the thinnest people in developed countries, mostly because of Griffin eating habits of traditional healthy Griffin cuisine. The Griffin obesity rate is very low, but with rising epidemic of obesity. Authorities now regard obesity as one of the main public health issues and fight it fiercely. Nevertheless, rates of childhood obesity are slowing.

Culture
Griffin Empire has been a center of Western Natian cultural development for centuries. Many Griffin artists have been among the most renowned of their time, and Griffin Empire is still recognized in the world for its rich cultural tradition.

The successive political regimes have always promoted artistic creation, and the creation of the Ministry of Culture in 1900 helped preserve the cultural heritage of the country and make it available to the public. The Ministry of Culture has been very active since its creation, granting subsidies to artists, promoting Griffin culture in the world, supporting festivals and cultural events, protecting historical monuments. The Griffin government also succeeded in maintaining a cultural exception to defend audiovisual products made in the country.

Griffin Empire receives the highest number of tourists per year, largely thanks to the numerous cultural establishments and historical buildings implanted all over the territory. It counts 1,200 museums welcoming more than 50 million people annually. The most important cultural sites are run by the government, for instance through the public agency Agentsiya por säilitamacijaoonsam natsionalneiska ot tilgavrömbrarotre, which is responsible for approximately 85 national historical monuments.

The 43,180 buildings protected as historical monuments include mainly residences (many castles) and religious buildings (katedraals, kirkjas, christian churches), but also statues, memorials and gardens. The Natian Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization inscribed 45 sites in Griffin Empire on the World Heritage List.

Art
Since ancient times, Griffin people have inhabited most of the modern Griffin territory. The very numerous Rock Drawings in Rezgý go to 8,000 BC, and there are rich remains of ancient Griffin art. The origins of modern art were very much influenced by Griffinism philosphy at the time of the first and second Griffin Renaissance. Jon Fokhettä, the most famous medieval Griffin painter, is said to have been the first painter of the First Renaissance, and in the end he ended opening Renaissance painting School of Blaaföntanshke. Some of the most famous Griffin artists of the time of Baroque lived in Tybalteva and were inspired by the art of the time.

The 17th century was the period when Griffin painting became prominent and individualised itself through classicism. Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture was founded in 1684 to protect these artists, and in 1666 the still-active Griffin Academy in Gatineau was created to have direct relations with Tybaltevan artists.

Griffin artists developed the late Baroque Griffin style in the 18th century, as a more intimate imitation of old baroque style, the works of the court-endorsed artists being the most representative in the country. The Lætingmaa Awakening brought great changes and brought artists of neoclassic style and the highly influential Kunstiakadeemia ot bonitaiska arsotr defined the style known as Griffin Academism. At this time Griffin Empire had become a centre of artistic creation, the first half of the 19th century being dominated by two successive movements, at first Romanticism and Realism, a style that eventually evolved into Naturalism.

In the second part of the 19th century, Griffin influence over painting became even more important, with the development of new styles of painting such as Impressionism and Symbolism.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Cubism was developed by Georgi Plëg and the Solentoyan painter Paolo Ruiz, living in Kralingslæting. Other foreign artists also settled and worked in or near Kralingslæting.

Many museums in Griffin Empire are entirely or partly devoted to sculptures and painting works. A huge collection of old masterpieces created before or during the 18th century are displayed in the state-owned Brobdingngagng Palace Museum. While the Brobdingngagng Palace has been for a long time a museum, the Ilzeh Museumi was inaugurated in 1986 in the old railway station Tooggstatioon ot Ilzeh, in a major reorganisation of national art collections, to gather Griffin paintings from the second part of the 19th century (mainly Impressionism and Fauvism movements).

Modern works are presented in the Natsionalneiska museumi ot moderneiska arsotr, which moved in 1976 to the Centrümi arsiskaja "Giorgi Býnbatson". These three state-owned museums welcome close to 17 million people a year. Other national museums hosting paintings include the Grandiozsiska Shaitö (1.3 million visitors in 2008), but there are also many museums owned by cities, the most visited being the Kralingslætingiskaja museumi moderneiska ot arsotr (0.8 million entries in 2008), which hosts contemporary works. Outside Kralingslæting, all the large cities have a Museum of Fine Arts with a section dedicated to Natian, Galean and Griffin painting. Some of the finest collections are in Hermýn, Nýtdainsk, Legislæting, Anastasij, Sania and Planigslæting.

Architecture
During the Middle Ages, many fortified castles were built by feudal nobles to mark their powers. Some Griffin castles that survived are Õamim, Emkölszdvorec, the massive Famsömäsdvorec and the so-called Gedel castles. During this era, Griffin had been using Romanesque architecture like most of Galea and Norigin. Some of the greatest examples of Romanesque kirkjas in Griffin Empire are the Kirkja ot Volem in Göldtsit, the largest romanesque kirkja in the country.

The Gothic architecture, originally named Grýfýnýskgėdåř meaning "Griffin work", was born in Sletterimaa, and somewhat later in Foreõsvdetrre and was the first Griffin style of architecture to be copied in all Natia. The most important representatives being the Kirkja ot alomantavarnung in Shöyn District of Kralingslæting (used as the royal necropolis); Kirkja ot volem in Ueldlävilajet and Ejmjenspalajtsc Katedraal. The emperors were crowned in another important Gothic kirkja: Rhemsit Katedraal. Aside from krikjas, Gothic Architecture had been used for many palaces, the most important one being the Övrazvhodaliuddniqiskaja shaitö in Zonpolah.

During the time of the First Griffin Renaissance Griffin artists and several artists from Tybalteva were invited to the Griffin court; many residential palaces were built in the Hermýna Valley, from 1450 with as a first reference the Dimdzilaeo Shaitö. Such residential castles were the Üenpildt dvorec, Sjömimszaadvorec, or the Enpiazö Shaitö.

Following the renaissance and the end of the Middle Ages, Baroque architecture replaced the traditional Gothic style. However, because of Grffinism and its special ways, in Griffin Empire, baroque architecture found a greater success in the secular domain than in a religious one. In the secular domain, the Saint Belviederhee Dvorec has many baroque features, as well as famous Ýnwaliidet Kirkja et Dvorec. Some of the most impressive provincial baroque architecture is found in places such as the Stanislas Square in Daunsigslæting. On the military architectural side, some of the most efficient fortresses were built here.

During the second renaissance, Neoclassicism was favoured and was introduced with such buildings as the Ajltläbjörghutjut in Kralingslæting or the Kaptöllä in Göldtsit. Built during the second renaissance, the Kapii ot võitjating and Osiyettkirkja in Kralingslæting represent the best example of Neoclassicism style architecture. In the same period extravagant buildings such as the neo-baroque Bitniska Õepra were built. The urban planning of the time was very organised and rigorous. In the late 19th century, Gustaff Ehvör designed many bridges, such as Kelepadt viaduct, and remains one of the most influential bridge designers of his time, although he is best remembered for the iconic Ehvör Tower in Kralingslæting.

In the 20th century, Griffo-Pyreican architect Reix Colpozaol designed several buildings in Griffin Empire. More recently, Griffin architects have combined both modern and old architectural styles. The Brobdingngagng Pyramid is an example of modern architecture added to an older building. The most difficult buildings to integrate within Griffin cities are skyscrapers, as they are visible from afar. For instance, in Kralingslæting, until 1977, new buildings had to be under 37 meters. Griffin largest financial district is Scirq in Kralingslæting, where a significant number of skyscrapers are located. Some famous modern Griffin architects include Jon Nýt, Dominik Boleord, Krýstjaan ätt Bildsenbelts or Pavl Emtlöson.

Literature
The earliest Griffin literature dates from the period of the first language law. Some authors of oldest Griffin texts are unknown. Medieval authors are more known, for example Kąřl ätt Trósýt and Duke Wýłëm ý Sąüdýpzyërý who wrote in older version of Pzyerimeremaa dialect.

Much medieval Griffin poetry and literature were inspired by the legends of the Unification of Griffin lands, such as Röląńdýląül and the various trübădălăl.

During the 17th century, first psychological novels of all times was published in the country. In the same period, Jon Fontanške became one of the most famous fabulists, as he wrote hundreds of fables. Generations of Griffin pupils had to learn his fables, that were seen as helping teaching wisdom and common sense to the young people.

Griffin literature and poetry flourished even more in the 18th and 19th centuries. Deniiz Tatölýd tried to sum up all the knowledge of his century (in fields such as arts, sciences, languages, and philosophy) in his book Áltläbågën (literally the book about everything) and to present them to the people, to fight ignorance and obscurantism. During that same century, famous children's fairy tales including Bözýpüdz, Böbörjögë, Ëölølæ and Blåbøřd were written. At the start of the 19th century, symbolist poetry was an important movement.

The 19th century saw the Griffin Empire becoming the most important country for young writters. The Ą Anwagrdasd is a Griffin prize in the field of arts and it was first awarded for literature in 1903. As of 2020, Griffin authors had more All-Natian Literature Prizes than those of any other nation. The first All-Natian Literature Prize in Literature was a Griffin author.

Philosophy
Throughout Griffin history, common theme was the philosophy of Griffinism. It was the foundation for the modern Griffin philosophy. Griffin philosophers produced some of the most important political works of the Second Griffin Renaissance (also known as the Age of Enlightenment) talking about the principle of separation of powers, which has been implemented in all liberal democracies since it was first applied in the principality of Foreõsvdetrre. Griffin philosophy defended civil liberties, such as the right to a free trial and freedom of religion.

19th-century was the age of positivism. In the 20th century, partly as a reaction to the perceived excesses of positivism, Griffinism thrived again. The philosophy of Jon Pavl Zeldtlä gained a strong influence in the mid-20th and late-20th-century when Griffin Empire became the cradle of postmodern philosophy.

Music
See also: Griffin Empire in Nation Song Contest and Griffiniskaja Laul Griffin has a long and varied musical history. It experienced a golden age in the 17th century thanks to Griffin Royal Family which employed a number of talented musicians and composers in the royal court. Griffin composers played an important role during the music of the 19th and early 20th century. Romantic music emphasised a surrender to nature, a fascination with the past and the supernatural, the exploration of unusual, strange and surprising sounds, and a focus on national identity. This period was also a golden age for operas.

Later came precursors of modern classical music - early-20th-century Griffin avant-garde and impressionist music.

Griffin music then followed the rapid emergence of pop and rock music at the middle of the 20th century. Although English-speaking creations achieved popularity in the country, Griffin pop music, has remained more popular. Although there are very few rock bands in Griffin Empire compared to other countries, bands such as Modá, Ewert and the Two Dragons and Winny Puhh have reached worldwide popularity.

Other Griffin artists with international careers have been popular in several countries, most notably female singers LALEH, Medina, Liis Lemsalu, Sandra Nurmsalu and Annalisa, electronic music pioneers PULS, later NOËP, Púr Múdd, Martin Solveig and David Guetta, as well as other electronic duos reached worldwide popularity and contributed to the reputation of modern electronic music in the world.

Among current musical events and institutions in Griffin Empire, many are dedicated to classical music and operas. The most prestigious institutions are the state-owned Natsionalneiska Õepra (with its two sites Bitniska Õepra and Stella Õepra), Hermýniskaja Õepra, the Üodorjo Teater in Kralingslæting, the Teater mei Kaptöllä in Göldtsit and the Grandiozsiska Teater Pyetsitiskaja. As for music festivals, there are several events organised, the most popular being Griffiniskaja Laul, VSFestivaal, Fajerotjeetdane and Rock-ja-lina. The Musicquedaign, imitated by many foreign cities, was first launched by the Griffin Government in 1982. Major music halls and venues in the Empire include Kralarrenaa, Nýtarrenaa and many others.

Cinema
Griffin Empire has historical and strong links with cinema. The world's first female filmmaker, Aliis Koha-Breuoo, was also from Griffin Empire. Several important cinematic movements began in the country. It is noted for having a strong film industry, due in part to protections afforded by the Government of Griffin Empire. Griffin Empire remains a leader in filmmaking, producing more films than any other Western Natian country. The nation also hosts the Hjemtilëiyl Film Festival, one of the most important and famous film festivals in the world.

Apart from its strong and innovative film tradition, Griffin Empire has also been a gathering spot for artists from across Natia. For this reason, Griffin cinema is sometimes intertwined with the cinema of foreign nations. Directors from nations such as Effiland, Svobodnia, Solentoya, New Bander State, Rahasia-Diati and Arkodrë are prominent in the ranks of Griffin cinema. Conversely, Griffin directors are extremely successful in other countries. Griffin Empire is currently the 2nd exporter of films in the world.

Fashion
Fashion has been an important industry and cultural export of Griffin Empire since the 17th century. Today, Kralingslæting is considered one of the world's fashion capitals, and the city is home or headquarters to many of the premier fashion houses. The expression hootäqtuurr (haute couture) is, in Griffin Empire, a legally protected name, guaranteeing certain quality standards.

The association of Griffin Empire with fashion and style (Griffin: modai, Old Griffin: modá) dates largely to the reign of Gustav XVIII when the luxury goods industries in Griffin Empire came increasingly under royal control and the Griffin royal court became, the arbiter of taste and style in Natia. But Griffin Empire renewed its dominance of the high fashion industry in the years 1860–1960 through the establishing of the great couturier houses. The Griffin perfume industry is world leader in its sector and is centered on the town of Klezs, Meremaa.

Media
Best-selling daily national newspapers in Griffin Empire are Griffin Todan, SaudiGriffinisk', Madnait, and Vaikli; local newspapers like Kralingslætingiskaja, Kralewskovgrad Todan, Hetimaa Folknouevele, Hermýniske, and Filipolisöpostennä; Sparrtimaa dedicated to sport.

Griffiniskaja Televisioon
Griffiniskaja Televisioon (GTV) is the Griffin public national television broadcaster. It is a state-owned company divided into 6 main channels and 8 regional channels that serve 7 Griffin principalities. It is currently funded by the revenue from television licence fees and commercial advertising. Commercial advertising on the public television channels is strictly forbbiden.

Programming
News programmes are an important part of GTV. Since 1972 there have been two main news programmes: Nouevele et Nýt ý dágn. The two news programmes had completely separate organizations, meaning a lot of duplicated coverage was provided. After some co-operation in the 1990s, the two programmes were allowed to merge in 2000 with the newly created G-NOUEVELE to form a single organization. GTV also broadcasts video news on the Internet through a service called PLAIYÖ.

GTV provides news programmes in various minority languages: Effinsk, Gvozdian, Tybaltevan, Pyreican, French and Griffin Sign Language.

Entertainment shows on Fridays and Saturdays are, together with popular sports, the programmes that attract the largest audiences.


 * Griffiniskaja Laul is very popular in Griffin Empire. The show generally gets around 17 million viewers.
 * Wildeting, the original Griffin version of Survivor.
 * Gåřůńdtýkvëd, popular entertainment quiz
 * Tpak mjere popgudiskast! - a reality television show where each artist attempts to do their own version of another artist's well-known songs, with each person getting an episode featuring all of their songs being performed by the other musicians. The artists spend eight days together at a hotel in Meremaa, where they attempt to put their own stamps on the songs
 * Laulemo tügeris - broadcast live from various locations in the country, this popular summer show features sing-alongs with Griffin folk music. The first sing-along was held in 1935 in the Blaaföntanshke. Radio transmissions of the event started shortly after that. The sing-along has been a tradition every summer since then.
 * GTV hosted the five Waiting List Song Contest related events
 * GTV produces drama in several genres and forms.
 * Fërpdtëlsk was one of the most popular soap operas in Griffin Empire.

Channels

 * GTV 1 - The company's primary channel with the largest viewing audience
 * GTV 2 - Broadcasting in minority languages
 * GTV ÄLT - Broadcasting in Old Griffin language
 * GTV LÝF - Focuses on sports, sitcom, arts, music and entertainment
 * GTV ARS - Specializing in theatre, opera and drama
 * G-NOUEVELE - A 24-hour news channel
 * Regional channels include:
 * GTV FOR - Foreõsvdetrre
 * GTV ÕKL - Õklingsmaa
 * GTV PZY - Pzyerüyölkeä
 * GTV FÄR - Färzas - Lætingmaa (Färzas region)
 * GTV LÆT - Färzas - Lætingmaa (Lætingmaa region)
 * GTV EEM - Eestimadnait
 * GTV SLE - Sletterimaa
 * GTV MER - Meremaa

Society
According to a GTV poll, Griffin Empire is globally seen as a positive influence in the world's affairs. The Natian Brand Index suggests that the Empire has one of the best international reputations. A global opinion poll for the GTV saw Griffin Empire ranked among the top most positively viewed nation in the world.

Griffinians are found to have the highest level of religious tolerance and to be the country where the highest proportion of the population defines its identity primarily in term of nationality and not religion. The magazine International Living often ranks Griffin Empire as "best country to live in".

The First and Second Griffin Renaissance continue to permeate the country's collective memory.

Griffin Empire is one of the world leaders of gender equality in the workplace and was ranked by the Natia Bank as one of the countries where women have the same work rights as men. Griffin Empire is one of the most liberal countries in the world when it comes to LGBT rights: a Research Center poll found that almost 100% of the Griffinians think that same-sex relationships should be accepted by society. Griffin Empire never criminalized same-sex marriage and adoption. Griffin Empire is also committed to protecting the environment: recently, Griffin Empire was ranked 2nd in the Environmental Performance Index (behind neighboring Pyreica).

Cuisine
Griffin cuisine is renowned for being one of the finest in the world. According to the regions, traditional recipes are different, the most of the country prefers to use butter or animal fat as the preferred fat for cooking, whereas olive oil is more commonly used in Meremaa. Moreover, each region of Griffin Empire has iconic traditional specialities. Griffin most renowned products are wines, as well as a large variety of different cheeses. There are more than 400 different varieties. In addition to its wine tradition, Griffin Empire is also a major producer of beer and rum. The three main Griffin brewing regions are Lætingmaa (60% of national production), Gvozdisletterid Region in Sletterimaa and Färzas.

Griffin cuisine is also regarded as a key element of the quality of life and the attractiveness of Griffin Empire. A Griffin publication, the Nauram guide, awards Nauram stars for excellence to a select few establishments. The acquisition or loss of a star can have dramatic effects on the success of a restaurant.