Geography
Milan’s geography makes the city state very defensible. Its international borders are extremely mountainous and discourage mass crossing from its French and German neighbors. Because of the mountainous region in Milan, the amount of farmland is limited but that hasn’t seemed to be too impactful, as the yield of Milanese crops is strong. Milan’s Po River is filled annually from melting snow caps and it transports minerals downriver to farms and vineyard dotting its banks.
Economy/Industry
Their neighbor Florence has become known for wool. Milan, with less grazing land, has had to be creative with regard to industry. They have embraced industry more than any other Italian locale and as such, they import a good many raw goods so that they are able to export finished goods. Milanese silk, paints, and weaponry are highly sought after by individuals from all across the world.
Entertainment
Neighboring Florence is famed for its grand balls and masques. It should come as a shock to hear Florence complain about the excess and lavishness of entertainment in Milan. Milan has founded a new style of balladeering- the opera. The region has had a number of successful musicians within its ranks.
Government
Leadership in Milan is conducted by a doge. The doge is selected by an elected great council. The doge serves a lifelong term of office. This topic is presently under great scrutiny in Milan as the Milanese people believe that an elected king still acts as king; there are petitions to limit a doge’s term in office to two years. There have been some rumblings about changing who may be eligible to have a seat on the great council or serve as doge, but presently those positions are limited to those of class and standing.
Who’s Who
- Vedetta Massimo, Cardinal
- Renzetto Riccardino, Doge of Milan
- Celina Riccardino, Doge’s Wife
- Federica Riccardino, Doge’s Daughter
- Floriana Riccardino, Doge’s Daughter
- Dominego Pavesi, Vinter
- Montez Todaro, Entertainer
- Primo Massimo, Soldier
- Giovanni Intemperie, Soldier
- Benecio Deprimente, Servant to the Cardinal
- Suzetta Intemperie, Courtesan