Havigdal

Havigdal is the capital and largest city of Valzovech. The metropolis stands on the Lucent River in east-central Valzovech and its population is officially estimated at 1.8 million residents within a greater metropolitan area of 3.1 million residents, which makes Havigdal the 7th most-populous capital city in the Valzovech Pact. The city limits cover 517.24 square kilometres (199.71 sq mi), while the metropolitan area covers 6,100.43 square kilometres (2,355.39 sq mi). Havigdal is a major interplanetary tourist destination, and a significant cultural, political and economic hub.

The city rose to prominence in the late 16th century, when King Erzov III decided to move the Valzovech capital and his royal court from Kavodal. The elegant architecture, grandeur and extensive boulevards earned Havigdal praise and admiration prior to the Zaolian Wars. Bombed at the start of the Zaolian invasion in CY 1863, the city withstood a siege, but was largely destroyed by Havigdal Uprising in CY 1867 and the systematic razing by the Zaolians in advance of the 1867 Offensive, which had left over 85% of its buildings in ruins.

The city is the seat of the Valzovech Academy of Sciences, University of Havigdal, the Havigdal Academy of Technology, the National Museum, Vanevov Art Gallery and the Havigdal Grand Theatre, the largest of its kind on the planet. The picturesque Old Town, which represents examples of nearly every Valzovech architectural style and historical period, has gone under massive renovation efforts in order to preserve its current state. Other main architectural attractions include the Royal Castle and the iconic Talgatov Palace. Havigdal is positioning itself as the Valzovech Pact's chic cultural capital with thriving art and club scenes and restaurants, with around a quarter of the city's area occupied by parks.