Thoronlond

The capital city of the Estari Dominion roughly translates to “City of Thrones” in the Dunvari language. Formerly known as Elenathar (Elvish for “Starlit Harbor”) when the Sylvari Kingdom stood, Thoronlond is a massive port city situated on the western coast of Caledhel. This was once the seat of the royal family, but soon after Vale's Conquest and the establishment of the new Dominion, the royal family moved their home to Norkeep, a remote (and, in theory, more easily defended) fortress at the edge of the Pine Barrens.
Thoronlond's main economy is based on maritime trade, with its strategic location near the coast facilitating trade between different nations and continents. Its skilled shipwrights and artisans are renowned for creating some of the finest ships and naval vessels in the world. The city also prospered from fishing, crafting exquisite elven textiles, and exporting high-quality wood and precious gems from the nearby Black Moon Forest and Harduin Mine.
Situationed within the bay of the Queen's Embrace, the location is easily defended from naval attacks, as the Embrace forces any maritime attacks through a bottleneck channel with forts placed on either side.
Unique features of Thoronlond include its stunning harbors, adorned with elven statues and intricate mosaics, the enchanting Aelorean Gardens, a vast network of serene parks and green spaces, and the city's impressive elven architecture, characterized by tall, elegant spires and delicate, sweeping arches.
Some criminal groups operate in the shadows, engaging in smuggling, illegal gambling, and other illicit activities. They tend to be influential in the city's underworld but are careful not to draw too much attention from the authorities. The largest of these groups is the Syndicate and more recently the Laughing Hand.
With trade under tight imperial control, guilds and unions in Thoronlond are regulated and monitored by the government. These organizations primarily serve as intermediaries between workers and the ruling authorities, ensuring that laborers are treated fairly and that businesses adhere to government regulations. Guilds and unions are required to register with the government, and their leaders are often appointed or approved by the Empire.
Thoronlond is home to a wide variety of shops and services, taverns, inns, temples, galleries, and a variety of districts of varying wealth and opulence.
Some notable locations in Thoronlond include:
The Crimson Keep - A grand palace in the center of the city that once served as the primary residence of the royal family, now used for royal council meetings and visits.
The Isilrien Academy - The center of learning in Thoronlond is the prestigious Isilrien Academy, an ancient institution that has educated generations of scholars, mages, and artisans. The academy is known for its extensive libraries, state-of-the-art magical laboratories, and a wide range of courses covering various subjects such as history, arcane studies, and natural sciences. The Academy is an internationally renowned center of learning, and attracts scholars and students from all over the continent.
The Aelorean Gardens - A sprawling network of beautifully landscaped parks, gardens, and tranquil ponds. Named for Queen Aelorean Estari, first queen of the Estari Dominion. The gardens were commissioned by King Vale Estari as a gift to his new bride.
The Grand Harbor - A bustling port and trade hub, with rows of elegant, statuesque piers and intricate mosaics, and a vast, picturesque boardwalk.
The Moonlit Promenade - A popular gathering place for artists, musicians, and poets, featuring beautiful elven architecture and breathtaking views of the harbor.
The Verdant Sanctuary - An ancient temple dedicated to Elyria, the Greenkeeper, to pay homage to the god of nature and wilderness. The temple is surrounded by lush gardens, and its architecture incorporates natural elements such as vines, flowers, and trees.
The Chronus Archive - An architectural marvel built by the Chronus Consorium. The library houses a vast collection of books, scrolls, and artifacts from across the continent, chronicling the history, culture, and knowledge of various civilizations.

Population: 238,590
33% elves
24% mixed ancestry
19% humans
16% dwarves
8% other races