Maristella

Maristella
Overseas Possession of Caphiria
Maristellia
Flag Seal
Country	Caphiria
Largest city	Cartín
Established	1918
Capital	Port Caesapha
Government
• Type	Provinciarum
• Praetor	Amilcarlo Lannucastov
Area
• Land	120,305 km2 (46,450 sq mi)
Population
• Total	273,300
	Approximately 200,000 prisoners

Maristella is an overseas possession and archipelago of Caphiria located in Catenias, south of the Kindreds Sea between Vallos and mainland Sarpedon. It is bordered by Lucrecia to the west, Puertego to the north, and Pelaxia to the east. The archipelago consists of four main islands, from largest to smallest in area: Orvela, Granmirada, Caesapha, and Azzurina, along with several atolls. While the administrative capital, Port Caesapha, is on the island of Caesapha, more than 60% of the population lives on the island of Orvela; Cartín is the largest city. Maristella is considered the personal property of the reigning Imperator, however it retains a semi-autonomous status, possessing its own jurisdiction and ability to self-govern. This unique arrangement grants the Imperator significant influence over the territory while allowing Maristella to manage its internal affairs.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the initial inhabitants were the Mustrida people from the Glaistic civilization. By the 6th century BC, following the collapse of the Adonerii, the region saw independent settlements and established colonies and trade networks with eastern Vallos and Sarpedon. From the 2nd to the 8th century, Maristella was part of the Emeritan Republic, becoming one of the wealthiest regions due to its strategic location and natural resources. In the late 8th century, Maristella transitioned into a vassal state under Caphiria's First Imperium, maintaining significant autonomy. During this period, Maristella's cultural, economic, and political ties with Lucrecia deepened, marking a golden age of mutual prosperity and collaboration. After the collapse of the Second Imperium in 1172, Maristella remained under Caphirian control, unlike Lucrecia, which experienced temporary independence. With the formation of the Third Imperium in 1283, Maristella evolved into a formal colony with private villas, military fortifications, and burgeoning cities, solidifying its strategic importance and role as a key possession of Caphiria. In 1881, Imperator Arturpiulerix III claimed the island of Caesapha as his personal possession, triggering the Maristellian War between the indigenous Emeritans and Caphiria. The war was quick and decisive, ending with Caphiria annexing the entire archipelago as an overseas possession in 1883.

Maristella's culture and society strongly reflect the fusion of the indigenous culture and Caphirian colonial rule. Caphiric Latin is the official and prevailing language of government, business, media, and education, however there are roughly 14 local languages; over 70% of the population are native Latin speakers and approximately a quarter speak it as a second language. Maristella has over 14 ethnic groups, the vast majority of which are descendants from Caphiric slavery, expatriates and migrant workers. The local government of Maristella, the Provinciarum of Maristella, is led by a Governor appointed by the Imperator and works with local councils to address the inhabitants. Despite the benefits of Caphirian oversight, there are undercurrents of tension related to the degree of autonomy and local governance. The islands' rich biodiversity and pristine beaches attract tourists from across the Imperium and beyond, making tourism a significant sector. Additionally, Maristella's strategic location makes it a vital hub for maritime activities, linking eastern Vallos and Sarpedon.

Etymology

The word maristellia derives from the Latin "maris" (sea) and "stella" (star).

According to tradition, Maristellia was named after Princess Maristella, an influential figure in Catenias's early history. Born to a Caphirian Consul and an Emeritan princess, she leveraged her dual heritage to unite the fragmented tribes of the Catenias region through diplomacy and strategic marriages. During her reign, Maristellia forged a significant alliance with Lucrecia, fostering a period of peace and prosperity. This alliance was cemented through treaties that facilitated trade and mutual defense, ensuring the stability and growth of both regions. The cooperation between Maristella and Lucrecia led to a flourishing of arts, culture, and commerce, marking the early history of both regions with a golden age of development.

The star symbol in the name is said to represent her guidance and vision, likened to a star guiding sailors through the treacherous waters surrounding the islands.

Geography

Maristella comprises four main islands: Orvela, Granmirada, Caesapha, and Azzurina, along with several atolls. The archipelago's diverse landscapes, from lush forests to pristine beaches, contribute to its economic and cultural richness.