Iberian Empire
Current Month: Julwar 2nd: 209, The Fifth Age
A shadow of its former self, the Iberian survivors of the Second Apocalypse settled into the old homeland of the Veluccian Republics.
An empire only in name, the authority of its monarch only extends as far as the City of Roses, the Empire's supposed capital.
Instead, authority throughout the realm goes to the dozens of regional lords; the Grandees, the Marquis, Barons, and other lords each field their own personal armies, and war with each other as often as they do with foreign powers. The only time they band together and even refer to themselves as Iberians is when dealing with outside threats.
Ruling Body
Iberia is a so called imperial monarchy ruled by an emperor or empress. It is a title that passes to the emperor's eldest child upon their death. The nation rarely changes its ruling House, as the other Houses do not care enough to take a position that is only a figurehead at best. The current ruler is Emperor Felipe el Bordon but he only has weak control of the country.
The ruler of Iberia seldom controls events outside of the capital city of Roses, and sometimes not even there. The only reason an emperor is tolerated in Iberia is as a deterrent to incursions by foreign nations, and such an invasion is just about the only thing that will compel rival Iberian lords to cooperate.
The capital, the City of Roses, is located in the central island of Iberia, and trade there always flourishes, regardless of whatever political upheaval may be engulfing the city or nation; it is this trade which keeps the city alive. It is one of few cities in the world which has more inns and stables than residences and shops. Roses was once surrounded by a tall stone wall, but it has since crumbled. The many thieves who call Roses home consider any foreigner a fair mark, and the unpaved roads and alleys are dangerous to travel alone.
Iberia plays a minor role in world politics. The lack of an effective ruler makes it difficult for Iberia to defend itself, much less to make its presence felt in the rest of the land.
Economy
Iberia has some mining, and produces gold and silver, but the political situation never allows any large-scale or well-organized efforts. It has a good trade in wool, and is famed for its lace. Beef, mutton, and leather are also produced.
Military
The army of Iberia historically consists of the personal levies of the nobles, who squabble over command. Nobles even remove their troops in times of dire need because of these arguments. Noblewomen almost invariably use a proxy general to command their soldiers, and very rarely take the field themselves.
Noblemen are expected to lead whether or not they are competent to do so. There has never been a permanent formation in Iberia. The throne is weak, and while the emperor would want a formation to strengthen their own power, this would always be opposed by the other Houses.
Stand together
Type
Geopolitical, Empire
Capital
Demonym
Iberians
Leader
Leader Title
Government System
Monarchy, Crowned Republic
Power Structure
Feudal state
Location
Official Languages
Controlled Territories
Comments