Duchy of Milan (State of the Holy Roman Empire)

The Duchy of Milan is a bustling city-state located in the heart of Northern Italy. Its strategic location and strong leadership have made it a major power in the region.

• Coat of arms/Flag: The coat of arms of the Duchy of Milan features a crowned eagle on a red background, with a white border and four stylized firesteels in each corner.
• Status: City-state
• General Alignment: Lawful neutral
• Capital City: Milan
• Other Settlements: Pavia, Lodi, Cremona, Como, Bergamo
• Common languages: Italian
• Religion(s): Roman Catholicism

Demographics:

• Human: 95%
• Elf: 2%
• Dwarf: 1%
• Halfling: 1%
• Other: 1%

• Government: Feudal monarchy
• Legislature: Ducal council
• Population: Approximately 200,000

Places of interest:

• The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral), one of the largest churches in the world
• The Castello Sforzesco, a sprawling castle complex that houses several museums and galleries
• The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a grand shopping arcade
• The Pinacoteca di Brera, a renowned art museum
• The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio, a historic church dedicated to Saint Ambrose

Current Ruler: Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan

Other Notable residents:

• Leonardo da Vinci, renowned artist and inventor
• Ludovico Sforza, brother of the Duke and patron of the arts
• Niccolò Machiavelli, writer and political philosopher

Notable places:

• The Sforza family’s palace, a grand residence located in the heart of Milan
• The University of Pavia, one of the oldest universities in Europe
• The Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, a stunning church decorated with intricate frescoes and mosaics.

The Duchy of Milan is situated on the fertile plains of Lombardy, surrounded by rolling hills and fertile farmland. The city itself is a hub of activity, with merchants, artisans, and nobles all vying for power and influence. The city is known for its impressive architecture, with towering cathedrals, ornate palaces, and sprawling piazzas.

Despite its grandeur, the Duchy of Milan is not without its share of dangers. The surrounding countryside is home to a number of fearsome creatures, including the infamous basilisk. This monstrous serpent is said to possess the power to turn living beings to stone with a single glance, and many travelers are wary of venturing too far from the city walls.

In addition to the basilisk, the forests and mountains of the region are home to a variety of other creatures, both real and mythical. Giants, dragons, and trolls are said to roam the hills, while werewolves and vampires lurk in the shadows of the city streets.

Despite these dangers, the Duchy of Milan remains a thriving center of trade and culture, with a rich history and a vibrant artistic scene. Its rulers have maintained a delicate balance of power, ensuring the city’s prosperity and protecting it from its many enemies.

In summary, the Duchy of Milan is a powerful city-state located in Northern Italy. It is home to a variety of dangers, including the fearsome basilisk and other mythical creatures, but also boasts a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy. Its leaders have managed to maintain a delicate balance of power, ensuring the city’s continued prosperity and success.