Nordhausen (Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire)

Nordhausen is a bustling town located in the foothills of the Harz Mountains in central Germany. The town has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire and is known for its thriving trade industry, attracting merchants from across the region.

• Coat of arms/Flag: A golden lion rampant on a blue field, with a red and white striped banner on top.
• Status: Town
• General Alignment: Neutral
• Settlement size: Small
• Corruption: 0, Crime: 0, Economy: 3, Law: 3, Lore: 3, Society: 3
• Qualities: Nordhausen is a prosperous town known for its skilled craftsmen, bustling markets, and well-organized city watch. Despite its success, the town is constantly threatened by bandits and raiders who roam the nearby forests.
• Danger: Medium
• Demographics:
• Country: Holy Roman Empire
• Government: Council of Burgomasters
• Legislature: Council of Burgomasters
• Population: Approximately 3,000
• Places of interest:
  • St. Blasii Church: A large, Gothic church that dominates the town’s skyline.
  • Roland Statue: A bronze statue of the legendary knight Roland, who is said to have saved Nordhausen from a siege by the Hungarian army.
  • Town Hall: A beautiful Renaissance building that houses the council of burgomasters.
• Current Ruler: The council of burgomasters, led by Mayor Heinrich Reimann.
• Other Notable residents:
  • Brother Konrad: A wise and respected monk who runs the local hospital and provides spiritual guidance to the townspeople.
  • Ingrid Dorn: A fiery young woman who runs the town’s largest brewery and is known for her excellent beer.
• Marketplace:
  • Base Value: 800 gp
  • Purchase Limit: 5,000 gp
  • Spellcasting: 2nd level spells
  • Minor Items: alchemical remedies, scrolls, potions, weapons, armor, and general goods. Medium Items: enchanted items and magical items. Major Items: legendary items and unique artifacts.

The streets of Nordhausen are narrow and winding, with buildings made of timber and brick lining the way. The town is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, providing ample opportunities for hunting and foraging. It is said that deep in the Harz Mountains, there are legends of witches, goblins, and other supernatural creatures. Some locals even claim to have seen the infamous Hexenritt, a procession of witches on horseback, riding through the forests at night.

Despite the rumors of supernatural activity, Nordhausen is a prosperous town with a strong economy based on trade and manufacturing. The town is famous for its production of high-quality textiles and metal goods, which are highly sought after by merchants and nobles alike. However, the town also has a reputation for corruption, with some of the town’s leaders rumored to be involved in illicit activities.

Nordhausen’s government is a council of wealthy merchants and influential citizens, who make decisions on behalf of the town. The council is led by a Burgomaster, who is elected by the council members. The town also has a militia, made up of volunteers who are responsible for maintaining order and protecting the town from outside threats.

Overall, Nordhausen is a town with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a thriving economy. Despite the rumors of supernatural creatures and corruption, the town remains a popular destination for traders, travelers, and adventurers alike.