Ravensburg (Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire)
Located in the heart of Upper Swabia, Ravensburg is a bustling market town known for its vibrant community and rich history. The town sits at the foot of the Swabian Alps, with the River Schussen running through its center, providing a picturesque landscape that attracts visitors from far and wide.
- Coat of arms/Flag –
- Status – City
- General Alignment – Neutral
- Settlement size – Large City
- Corruption – 1; Crime – 1; Economy + 4; Law + 3; Lore + 4; Society + 3
- Qualities – Well-defended city with a thriving economy and rich cultural heritage. Known for its skilled craftsmen, traders, and beautiful architecture.
- Danger + – Ravensburg is located in a region known for its dangerous beasts and monstrous creatures. The city is well-guarded and prepared for attacks, but travelers should still be cautious.
- Demographics – A diverse population of humans, dwarves, elves, and halflings, with a significant number of skilled craftsmen, merchants, and artists.
- Country – Holy Roman Empire
- Government – Led by a council of prominent citizens, with a mayor as the head of the council.
- Legislature – The council serves as the legislature.
- Population – Approximately 10,000 inhabitants
- Places of interest – The city boasts numerous historic landmarks, including the Ravensburg Castle, the Market Square, and the Church of St. Jodokus. Other notable sites include the local library, which contains a vast collection of books and manuscripts, and the city’s many artisan workshops and markets.
- Current Ruler – Mayor Heinrich Müller
- Other Notable residents – Master craftsman Johann Bauer, renowned artist Anna Schmidt, and the esteemed scholar and alchemist, Dr. Friedrich Wagner.
- Marketplace – Base Value: 5,000 gp; Purchase Limit: 25,000 gp; Spellcasting: 5th level spells available
- Minor Items: Potions, Scrolls, Trinkets, Rare Herbs, Common Magic Items
- Medium Items: Weapons, Armor, Tools, Rare Magic Items
- Major Items: Artifacts, Legendary Weapons and Armor, Unique Magic Items
Ravensburg is well-known for its unique architecture, with the town center featuring a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles. The towering Ravensburg Tower stands as a symbol of the town’s medieval heritage, with its intricate carvings and clockwork mechanisms drawing awe from visitors.
The idiosyncrasies of Ravensburg also include its bustling marketplace, where vendors hawk their wares ranging from fine silks to exotic spices. However, the town’s location on the edge of the dense forests that stretch towards the Alps has led to some strange occurrences. There are whispers of shadowy creatures that lurk in the forest, preying on travelers who dare to venture too far from the safety of the town’s walls. Some even say that a coven of witches inhabits the nearby woods, practicing their dark rituals in secret.
Despite these rumors, Ravensburg remains a welcoming town, with its people known for their hospitality and kindness. The local taverns and inns offer warm beds and hearty meals to weary travelers, with tales of the town’s history and legends shared over a mug of ale or glass of wine.
In summary, Ravensburg is a town with a rich history and unique blend of architectural styles, situated in the heart of Upper Swabia. While the surrounding forests may harbor mysterious creatures and legends of witches, the town remains a welcoming and hospitable place, with its bustling marketplace and warm community spirit.