Duchy of Bar (Vassal of Holy Roman Empire)
The Duchy of Bar is a small territory situated in the north-eastern part of France. Bordered by the Duchy of Lorraine and the County of Champagne, the Duchy of Bar is known for its rugged terrain and diverse population.
- Coat of arms/Flag: The coat of arms of the Duchy of Bar features a red field with a silver bend. On the bend are three red lozenges. The flag of Bar consists of two equal horizontal stripes of red and white.
- Status: Duchy.
- General Alignment: Lawful Neutral.
- Capital City: Bar-le-Duc.
- Other Settlements: Stenay, Commercy, Void-Vacon.
- Common Languages: French, Lorraine Franconian.
- Religion(s): Christianity (Catholicism).
- Demographics: The population of Bar consists mainly of French and Lorraine Franconian-speaking people. The majority of the population are farmers and peasants.
- Government: Feudal Monarchy.
- Legislature: The ruler of Bar governs with the help of an advisory council composed of lords and nobles.
- Population: The estimated population of Bar in 1453 is around 100,000.
- Places of interest: The Castle of Bar-le-Duc, the Church of St. Etienne, the Abbey of St. Mihiel, the Fortified Town of Stenay.
- Current Ruler: René II, Duke of Lorraine and Bar.
- Other Notable residents: Marguerite of Navarre, sister of King Francis I of France, was born in the Castle of Bar-le-Duc.
- Notable places: Castle of Bar-le-Duc, Church of St. Etienne, Abbey of St. Mihiel, Fortified Town of Stenay.
The Duchy of Bar is primarily a hilly region, with forests covering much of the area. The Meuse River runs through the Duchy, providing a major waterway for trade and transportation. The people of Bar are known for their resilience and independent spirit, with many small villages and towns scattered throughout the territory.
One of the most unique features of the Duchy of Bar is the presence of the elusive “Bar Beast.” According to local folklore, this creature roams the forests and hills of Bar, attacking travelers who venture too close to its lair. Some say the Bar Beast is a giant wolf, while others claim it is a mutated bear. Regardless of its true nature, the Bar Beast is a source of fear and fascination for the people of Bar.
In addition to the Bar Beast, the Duchy of Bar is also home to a number of other mythical creatures, including fairies, sprites, and goblins. These creatures are said to live in the forests and hills, and are known for their mischievous behavior.
Despite its small size, the Duchy of Bar is an important strategic location, due to its proximity to the Duchy of Lorraine and the County of Champagne. As a result, the Duchy has often been the site of battles and skirmishes throughout its history.
Overall, the Duchy of Bar is a rugged and independent territory, filled with natural beauty and mysterious creatures.