Tel Hatba

Tel Hatba, the Oasis of the Desert, is a city deeply connected to the nomadic traditions of South Al Nazar. Situated around a life-sustaining oasis, Tel Hatba has long been a crucial stop for caravans traversing the vast desert. The city’s history is intertwined with the tales of desert tribes and the trade routes that crisscross the arid expanse. Governed by a sheikhdom that values both tradition and strategic alliances, Tel Hatba has maintained its independence and prosperity in a region often marked by conflict. The city’s architecture, designed to combat the desert’s harsh climate, and its deep wells are testaments to the ingenuity of its people. In historical texts, Tel Hatba is often described as a beacon of resilience, where the harsh desert conditions were not just survived, but mastered, allowing the city to flourish as a center of trade and culture in South Al Nazar.

Demographics

Tel Hatba’s population is composed of 70% Humans, 15% Dwarves, 10% Elves, and 5% others. The city has a significant number of nomadic tribespeople who trade and interact with the city regularly.

Government

Tel Hatba is governed by a Sheikhdom, with Sheikh Ibrahim al-Hatba ruling as both the spiritual and political leader. The city’s governance is influenced by tribal customs and traditions, with a council of elders advising the Sheikh.

Defences

The city is protected by high walls and watchtowers. The Hatban Warriors, a group of skilled desert fighters, defend the city from raiders and other threats.

Industry & Trade

The economy of Tel Hatba is based on trade, livestock breeding, and the collection of desert herbs. The city is a major stop for caravans traveling across South Al Nazar, and it exports camels, spices, and herbs.

Infrastructure

Tel Hatba is a small but well-organized city, with narrow streets and well-protected wells. The city has several caravanserais where traders and travelers can rest, and its walls are fortified to protect against desert raiders.

Districts

• Sheikh’s Quarter: The central district where the Sheikh’s palace and the city’s main mosque are located.
• The Bazaar: A bustling market district where goods from across the desert are traded.
• The Caravan Quarter: A district designed to accommodate the many caravans that pass through Tel Hatba.
• Nomad’s Camp: A section of the city where nomadic tribes set up temporary camps.

Assets

Tel Hatba’s assets include its strategic location on desert trade routes, its deep wells, and its strong tribal alliances. The city is also known for its camel breeding and desert herbs.

Guilds and Factions

• The Traders’ Guild: A powerful group that controls much of the commerce in Tel Hatba.
• The Nomad’s Council: A group representing the interests of the nomadic tribes who frequent the city.
• The Herbalists’ Guild: An organization dedicated to the collection and trade of desert herbs.

History

Tel Hatba was founded as a small oasis settlement, but it grew into a significant city due to its strategic location on desert trade routes. The city has always been ruled by the al-Hatba family, who have maintained strong alliances with the surrounding tribes. Over the centuries, Tel Hatba has withstood numerous raids and invasions, emerging as a resilient and prosperous city.

Points of interest

• The Sheikh’s Palace: A grand structure that serves as the residence of the Sheikh and the center of the city’s governance.
• The Grand Mosque: The largest mosque in Tel Hatba, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
• The Oasis Gardens: A lush green space in the heart of the city, fed by underground springs.

Tourism

Tel Hatba attracts traders, pilgrims, and those interested in the unique culture of the desert. The city’s markets, mosque, and oasis gardens are major attractions, as is the annual Festival of the Desert, which celebrates the city’s heritage.

Architecture

The architecture of Tel Hatba is desert-adapted, with buildings made of mudbrick and stone. The city’s narrow streets and shaded courtyards provide relief from the heat, and the tall walls and watchtowers reflect the city’s need for defense against raiders.

Geography

Tel Hatba is located in the central desert of South Al Nazar, near a natural oasis. The surrounding landscape is harsh and arid, with sand dunes and rocky outcrops.

Climate

The climate in Tel Hatba is hot and arid, with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The city relies on its deep wells and underground springs for water, as rainfall is scarce.

Natural Resources

The region around Tel Hatba is rich in desert herbs and spices, which are collected and traded. The city is also known for its camel breeding, with the camels of Tel Hatba prized for their endurance and strength.

Population

Approximately 60,000

Inhabitant Demonym

Hatbans

Owner/Ruler

Sheikh Ibrahim Hursh

Owning Organization

The Hursh Family