With the latest coverage of Italy, an average forumite has one thought in the aftermath: Balkans are coming. Which is why the alliance between myself, @Sanguine Caesar, @Mingmung and @Dieselface brought you our concensus on how the Balkans should preferrably look in the future. We had some very fruitful debates, agreements, and i think each of us is happy with the product. Do have in mind that our work is not yet 100% finished, so the subsequent updates will be mentioned using the allmighty Threadmark option.
1444 was a year of great turmoil in the Balkans. Crusade of Varna left much of the region devastated, and the fractured Balkan monarchies were left weak to mount resistance against the Ottoman Empire alone.
Risen from the disintegrating remains of both the Byzantine Empire and the Second Bulgarian Empire, the Ottomans control the lands between the Aegean Sea and the Danube River. After the heavy blows dealt by the armies of Timur, the nucleus of Ottoman power now lays in Rumelia instead of Anatolia. Increased centralization has been made possible largely due to the efforts of the infamous Janissary corps, probably the first standing army in Europe.
The Sultan rules from the city of Edirne, one of the first cities in Thrace to fall to the Turks after they captured Gallipoli in 1354. The rest of the Eastern Balkans quickly followed; from the old capital of the Bulgarian empire, Tarnovo, to the capital of the Serbian Empire, Skopje. Now, with the defeat of the crusader army at Varna, the rest of the Balkans lay wide open.
The fertile valleys of the Danube and the Maritsa supply the regional markets with wheat, fruit, cheese and tallow while the mountains in Macedonia are rich in copper and iron. Migrations and forced relocations have resulted in an ethnically diverse countryside. Tribes from Anatolia have largely settled on the frontier or in depopulated areas, serving as auxiliary troops when necessary. The Dobruja above Varna and Silistra is one such frontier; bordering the great plains to the east and the Danube-delta. Raw skins and wool produced by the Turcoman pastoralists finds its way to Edirne and other Bulgarian towns where the leather industry flourishes.
Old frontiers like the areas around Sofia, Plovdiv and Vidin are seeing an increase in the amount of Turkish peasants and are slowly turning into commercial centres. Cotton textiles, spices and silk find their way to the European markets in the north while fine woollen cloth and iron tools, Styrian knives in particular, are imported to the Ottoman markets in the south.
Because of the treaty of Gallipoli signed in 1403, the Byzantine Empire still retains control over a few coastal towns and strongholds, the most prominent of which are Sozopol, Nesebar and Pomorie. The latter would hold a saltworks during the Ottoman times to come.
Though the entire Serbian Despotate was restored in the aftermath of Varna, the heavy fighting it saw during the five-year war devastated much of the countryside, making the Despotate too weak to attempt to quickly regain holdings that were conquered by Bosnia and Venice. The restoration of the Despotate wasn't anticipated by Bosnia, which is now suffering internal issues of it's own. A powerful Bosnian vassal, the Duke of Herzegovina and Hum, denies Stjepan Kotromanić's legitimacy, now actively seeking an alliance with the Serbian Despot against the Bosnian King.
The ever-opportunistic merchants of the prosperous Republic of Ragusa are also seeking to exert their influence over the area, seeking cooperation with both the Hungarians and the Turks in order to achieve it. They hope to gain an edge over their longtime rivals in Venice, who continue to choke the area of vital trade through their control of Skadar and the Bay of Kotor, forcing nearby states to increasingly turn towards the Magyars and Germans. For Serbia, though it still possesses respectable armies in Šumadija and Toplica areas, Kosovo and the Morava valley lie open to potential Ottoman aggression.
To the west, the Slovene lands remain firmly within the grip of German and Austrian influence. The germanised Counts of Gorizia with their capital in Lienz have lost much of their holdings to the Habsburgs and Venetians, while the County of Cilli remains a nominal Styrian vassal under the leadership of the legendary Ulrik II. The major trading ports of Trieste and Rijeka remain under Austrian control, despite being hungrily eyed by Venice, who have managed to assert their control over the Istrian coast.
Croatia remains in union with the Hungarian Crown, having lost its Dalmatian holdings to the Serenissima in 1420. The realm has entered into a state of general decline, yearning to once more reclaim the glorious days of King Dmitar Zvonimir. Their Magyar overlords meanwhile, have also set their sights on Bosnia, seeking a buffer-state against the ever-expanding Ottomans.
Croatia in a PU with Hungary.
Skanderbeg, supported by people of all ethnicities in the region, starts a decades long rebellion against his former suzerain, the Ottoman Empire, which by now established direct control over former territories of Lordship of Prilep and Velbazhd, gaining a strong staging ground for further conquest into Southern Greece, Albania, and Serbia. Can Skanderbeg and Branković overcome their feud and unite with the Hungarians for a greater cause?
Byzantine-Greek holdings in the Aegean and Southern Greece suffer from big uncertainties ahead. With several island nations, such as Naxos and Lesbos, all working for their own interest, this region's future is impossible to predict, as Republics of Venice and Genoa, as well as the Knights of Rhodes, all aim to expand their influence and strategic utility in the Aegean.
On the Peloponnese, several Byzantine holdings stand firm, though local authorities of Despotate of Morea, seated in Mystras, gain more ground as Byzantium's successor, with Kōnstantinoúpolis outmatched without outside help from the impending Ottoman attack. After decades of infighting between Greeks, Serbs, Albanians, and Ottomans, Despotate of Epirus was united by the house of Tocco of Kefalonia, but is now steadily losing ground to the Ottoman Empire, losing Ioannina in 1430.
The kingdom of Cyprus, dominated in the 14th century by the Genoese merchants, hoped that the French would be able to help against the Italians, therefore they sided with the Avignon Papacy in the Great Schism. The Mamluks then made the kingdom a tributary state in 1426. Can the succeeding monarchs of Cyprus regain their independence against the interest of the most powerful trade powers in the Mediterranean, only time will tell.
Province information:
National ideas:
Mission trees:
Credits
- @Dieselface for a beautifully modded map and insight on Greece, Aegean Isles and Cyprus.
- @Sanguine Caesar for his great contributions in Dalmatia, Slovenia, and the beautifully-made mission trees.
- @Mingmung for his dedication to accuracy, insight on Bulgaria/Ottoman Empire and Byzantium
- @Kane_hun for his help with Hungarian dynamic names and more
- @staycool. a lot of inspiration for the Serbian NI came from his own ideas.
Putting this thread together was a long process, and though we didn't yet finish everything, we were methodical in every change we made. However, if you want to get into more specifics in the region, such as extra information, unique events and such, I would direct you to @Sanguine Caesar 's threads on Croatia-Slavonia, and Venetian and Ragusan Dalmatia, @Mingmung 's Rumelia thread, @Dieselface 's all-insightful Greece thread, and my own thread addressing Serbia and East Adriatic.
In the following days, expect to see all NI sets having descriptions, and we will post a full spreadsheet of all provinces in the region, with their development, and more specific province info, as well as hundreds of dynamic names, etc.
Discuss!
1444 was a year of great turmoil in the Balkans. Crusade of Varna left much of the region devastated, and the fractured Balkan monarchies were left weak to mount resistance against the Ottoman Empire alone.
Risen from the disintegrating remains of both the Byzantine Empire and the Second Bulgarian Empire, the Ottomans control the lands between the Aegean Sea and the Danube River. After the heavy blows dealt by the armies of Timur, the nucleus of Ottoman power now lays in Rumelia instead of Anatolia. Increased centralization has been made possible largely due to the efforts of the infamous Janissary corps, probably the first standing army in Europe.
The Sultan rules from the city of Edirne, one of the first cities in Thrace to fall to the Turks after they captured Gallipoli in 1354. The rest of the Eastern Balkans quickly followed; from the old capital of the Bulgarian empire, Tarnovo, to the capital of the Serbian Empire, Skopje. Now, with the defeat of the crusader army at Varna, the rest of the Balkans lay wide open.
The fertile valleys of the Danube and the Maritsa supply the regional markets with wheat, fruit, cheese and tallow while the mountains in Macedonia are rich in copper and iron. Migrations and forced relocations have resulted in an ethnically diverse countryside. Tribes from Anatolia have largely settled on the frontier or in depopulated areas, serving as auxiliary troops when necessary. The Dobruja above Varna and Silistra is one such frontier; bordering the great plains to the east and the Danube-delta. Raw skins and wool produced by the Turcoman pastoralists finds its way to Edirne and other Bulgarian towns where the leather industry flourishes.
Old frontiers like the areas around Sofia, Plovdiv and Vidin are seeing an increase in the amount of Turkish peasants and are slowly turning into commercial centres. Cotton textiles, spices and silk find their way to the European markets in the north while fine woollen cloth and iron tools, Styrian knives in particular, are imported to the Ottoman markets in the south.
Because of the treaty of Gallipoli signed in 1403, the Byzantine Empire still retains control over a few coastal towns and strongholds, the most prominent of which are Sozopol, Nesebar and Pomorie. The latter would hold a saltworks during the Ottoman times to come.
Though the entire Serbian Despotate was restored in the aftermath of Varna, the heavy fighting it saw during the five-year war devastated much of the countryside, making the Despotate too weak to attempt to quickly regain holdings that were conquered by Bosnia and Venice. The restoration of the Despotate wasn't anticipated by Bosnia, which is now suffering internal issues of it's own. A powerful Bosnian vassal, the Duke of Herzegovina and Hum, denies Stjepan Kotromanić's legitimacy, now actively seeking an alliance with the Serbian Despot against the Bosnian King.
The ever-opportunistic merchants of the prosperous Republic of Ragusa are also seeking to exert their influence over the area, seeking cooperation with both the Hungarians and the Turks in order to achieve it. They hope to gain an edge over their longtime rivals in Venice, who continue to choke the area of vital trade through their control of Skadar and the Bay of Kotor, forcing nearby states to increasingly turn towards the Magyars and Germans. For Serbia, though it still possesses respectable armies in Šumadija and Toplica areas, Kosovo and the Morava valley lie open to potential Ottoman aggression.
To the west, the Slovene lands remain firmly within the grip of German and Austrian influence. The germanised Counts of Gorizia with their capital in Lienz have lost much of their holdings to the Habsburgs and Venetians, while the County of Cilli remains a nominal Styrian vassal under the leadership of the legendary Ulrik II. The major trading ports of Trieste and Rijeka remain under Austrian control, despite being hungrily eyed by Venice, who have managed to assert their control over the Istrian coast.
Croatia remains in union with the Hungarian Crown, having lost its Dalmatian holdings to the Serenissima in 1420. The realm has entered into a state of general decline, yearning to once more reclaim the glorious days of King Dmitar Zvonimir. Their Magyar overlords meanwhile, have also set their sights on Bosnia, seeking a buffer-state against the ever-expanding Ottomans.
Croatia in a PU with Hungary.
Skanderbeg, supported by people of all ethnicities in the region, starts a decades long rebellion against his former suzerain, the Ottoman Empire, which by now established direct control over former territories of Lordship of Prilep and Velbazhd, gaining a strong staging ground for further conquest into Southern Greece, Albania, and Serbia. Can Skanderbeg and Branković overcome their feud and unite with the Hungarians for a greater cause?
Byzantine-Greek holdings in the Aegean and Southern Greece suffer from big uncertainties ahead. With several island nations, such as Naxos and Lesbos, all working for their own interest, this region's future is impossible to predict, as Republics of Venice and Genoa, as well as the Knights of Rhodes, all aim to expand their influence and strategic utility in the Aegean.
On the Peloponnese, several Byzantine holdings stand firm, though local authorities of Despotate of Morea, seated in Mystras, gain more ground as Byzantium's successor, with Kōnstantinoúpolis outmatched without outside help from the impending Ottoman attack. After decades of infighting between Greeks, Serbs, Albanians, and Ottomans, Despotate of Epirus was united by the house of Tocco of Kefalonia, but is now steadily losing ground to the Ottoman Empire, losing Ioannina in 1430.
The kingdom of Cyprus, dominated in the 14th century by the Genoese merchants, hoped that the French would be able to help against the Italians, therefore they sided with the Avignon Papacy in the Great Schism. The Mamluks then made the kingdom a tributary state in 1426. Can the succeeding monarchs of Cyprus regain their independence against the interest of the most powerful trade powers in the Mediterranean, only time will tell.
Traditions
+15% Reinforce speed
+15% Manpower recovery speed
Ideas
Code of Laws
A compendium of several legal systems enacted by Stefan Uroš IV Dušan in 1349 in Skopje. It was used as the constitution of Serbian Empire and the succeeding Serbian Despotate. The Code regulated several aspects of life, especially addressing brigandry within the realm.
-10% Stability Cost
Home of the Hussars
Chonsaroi, irregular light cavalry formations, were traditionally recruited in Byzantine-held Serbia since 10th century. As Europe at the time relied on heavy cavalry, the tradition of light cavalry remained and evolved within the area. These cavalry formations had a profound influence on European cavalry tactics since early 15th century, especially in Hungary, Poland, Austria, and Russia.
+15% Cavalry Combat Ability
Code of Mines
Expand Despot Stefan's Code of Novo Brdo, and invite the second wave of Sass miners to settle and administer the wealthy ore extraction sites in our lands. The Serbian Despotate shall be the wealthiest state in Europe once again.
+10% Production Efficiency
Bastion of Orthodoxy
With the Ottoman Empire looming on the eastern horizon, and most of the Balkans subdued before the Baryaktar, Serbia shall serve as the last Balkanite bastion of Orthodoxy, the continuation of the Eastern Christian civilization.
+10% Morale of Armies
Serbian Patriarchate of Peć
The Serbian Patriarchate of Peć has a large influence and enjoys big prestige for the many Orthodox christians in the region. Borders of it's jurisdiction dwarfs those of our own realm, and we will use that to further and solidify our claims.
+1 Tolerance of True Faith
Morava School
Our most distinctive architectural style started developing in one of the most uncertain times in our history. We shall increase its prestige and influence in the region by continuing our rich tradition of partonizing beautiful monasteries. The splendor of Morava school will live on forever.
+0.5 Yearly Prestige
+0.5 Yearly Legitimacy
Serbian Hajduks
Unlike their northern counterparts in Hungary, Hajduks in Serbia and the neighboring Balkans, earned a more infamous reputation. These men lived the hard life of brigands, always in danger and on the move - preying on poorly defended roads and ambushing Ottoman tax collectors and merchants. During wars these experienced, tough men often filled the ranks of Serbian armies, providing excellent - if a bit undisciplined - infantry.
+10% Infantry Combat Ability
Ambition
+10% Institution Spread
+15% Reinforce speed
+15% Manpower recovery speed
Ideas
Code of Laws
A compendium of several legal systems enacted by Stefan Uroš IV Dušan in 1349 in Skopje. It was used as the constitution of Serbian Empire and the succeeding Serbian Despotate. The Code regulated several aspects of life, especially addressing brigandry within the realm.
-10% Stability Cost
Home of the Hussars
Chonsaroi, irregular light cavalry formations, were traditionally recruited in Byzantine-held Serbia since 10th century. As Europe at the time relied on heavy cavalry, the tradition of light cavalry remained and evolved within the area. These cavalry formations had a profound influence on European cavalry tactics since early 15th century, especially in Hungary, Poland, Austria, and Russia.
+15% Cavalry Combat Ability
Code of Mines
Expand Despot Stefan's Code of Novo Brdo, and invite the second wave of Sass miners to settle and administer the wealthy ore extraction sites in our lands. The Serbian Despotate shall be the wealthiest state in Europe once again.
+10% Production Efficiency
Bastion of Orthodoxy
With the Ottoman Empire looming on the eastern horizon, and most of the Balkans subdued before the Baryaktar, Serbia shall serve as the last Balkanite bastion of Orthodoxy, the continuation of the Eastern Christian civilization.
+10% Morale of Armies
Serbian Patriarchate of Peć
The Serbian Patriarchate of Peć has a large influence and enjoys big prestige for the many Orthodox christians in the region. Borders of it's jurisdiction dwarfs those of our own realm, and we will use that to further and solidify our claims.
+1 Tolerance of True Faith
Morava School
Our most distinctive architectural style started developing in one of the most uncertain times in our history. We shall increase its prestige and influence in the region by continuing our rich tradition of partonizing beautiful monasteries. The splendor of Morava school will live on forever.
+0.5 Yearly Prestige
+0.5 Yearly Legitimacy
Serbian Hajduks
Unlike their northern counterparts in Hungary, Hajduks in Serbia and the neighboring Balkans, earned a more infamous reputation. These men lived the hard life of brigands, always in danger and on the move - preying on poorly defended roads and ambushing Ottoman tax collectors and merchants. During wars these experienced, tough men often filled the ranks of Serbian armies, providing excellent - if a bit undisciplined - infantry.
+10% Infantry Combat Ability
Ambition
+10% Institution Spread
Traditions
+1 Attrition for Enemies
+15% Fort defense
Ideas
Legacy of Dioclea
The legendary Dioclea was the first medieval styled South Slavic state to break free from the might of the Byzantine Empire. Small and largely comprised of harsh mountainous lands, Dioclea was home to great generals and superb ambushers. Many Byzantine armies perished in its gorges and narrow river valleys.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Clan society
Traditionally the Montenegrin society has always been divided into clans or houses spanning the entire countryside. Few things were considered more sacred than physical prowess and valor among the men of these clans, making for a superb and eager source of infantry manpower.
-10% Infantry Cost
Metropolinate of Montenegro
Montenegrins have historically been members of the Serbian Orthodox Church, governed by a Metropolitan of their own. Hence the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral was created, a position that we must reaffirm and remind our neighbors of.
+1 Tolerance of True Faith
Balkan Gusars
The Balkan peninsula's coast of the entire length of the Adriatic Sea has a very long tradition of piracy, going back into early middle ages. Generations of men have spent their entire careers as Gusars (or Pirates), intercepting and looting unlucky Italian merchant ships, before disappearing into hidden coastal coves.
+10% Embargo Efficiency
+15% Privateer Eficiency
Čojstvo & Junaštvo
A supreme moral codex of the Montenegrin society dictating the ultimate norms of behavior of man in all maters: Humanity and Courageous valor. Rooted deeply in our society it is a great source of honor, courage and enthusiasm for our people, to never fear, run away from battle, or falter and instead always face the enemy, however powerful they might be.
+5% Morale of Armies
+2.5% Discipline
Call of the Sea
Having a significant coastline has always meant that the people of various coastal principalities were a part of a larger Mediterranean and European community. Trade, commerce and ideas are all known to have come from the sea and brought home by the experienced sailors.
+1 Yearly Navy Tradition
Tax reform
Throughout history our clans have relied on an ad hoc system of tax collection, mostly based on actual need of the day. But truly, if our state is to join the family of modern European countries, we must reform our taxation system and impose a more reliable and fair one.
+10% National Tax Modifier
Ambition
+15% Infantry combat ability
+1 Attrition for Enemies
+15% Fort defense
Ideas
Legacy of Dioclea
The legendary Dioclea was the first medieval styled South Slavic state to break free from the might of the Byzantine Empire. Small and largely comprised of harsh mountainous lands, Dioclea was home to great generals and superb ambushers. Many Byzantine armies perished in its gorges and narrow river valleys.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Clan society
Traditionally the Montenegrin society has always been divided into clans or houses spanning the entire countryside. Few things were considered more sacred than physical prowess and valor among the men of these clans, making for a superb and eager source of infantry manpower.
-10% Infantry Cost
Metropolinate of Montenegro
Montenegrins have historically been members of the Serbian Orthodox Church, governed by a Metropolitan of their own. Hence the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral was created, a position that we must reaffirm and remind our neighbors of.
+1 Tolerance of True Faith
Balkan Gusars
The Balkan peninsula's coast of the entire length of the Adriatic Sea has a very long tradition of piracy, going back into early middle ages. Generations of men have spent their entire careers as Gusars (or Pirates), intercepting and looting unlucky Italian merchant ships, before disappearing into hidden coastal coves.
+10% Embargo Efficiency
+15% Privateer Eficiency
Čojstvo & Junaštvo
A supreme moral codex of the Montenegrin society dictating the ultimate norms of behavior of man in all maters: Humanity and Courageous valor. Rooted deeply in our society it is a great source of honor, courage and enthusiasm for our people, to never fear, run away from battle, or falter and instead always face the enemy, however powerful they might be.
+5% Morale of Armies
+2.5% Discipline
Call of the Sea
Having a significant coastline has always meant that the people of various coastal principalities were a part of a larger Mediterranean and European community. Trade, commerce and ideas are all known to have come from the sea and brought home by the experienced sailors.
+1 Yearly Navy Tradition
Tax reform
Throughout history our clans have relied on an ad hoc system of tax collection, mostly based on actual need of the day. But truly, if our state is to join the family of modern European countries, we must reform our taxation system and impose a more reliable and fair one.
+10% National Tax Modifier
Ambition
+15% Infantry combat ability
Traditions
+20% Religious Unity
-10% Construction Cost
Ideas
Duchy of Saint Sava
By adopting the title of Duke of Saint Sava, we shall strengthen bonds with Serbia and enforce our political and religious independence from Bosnia.
+2 Tolerance of True Faith
Salt Trade
Our family has realized that our true economic potential is trading in salt through our port in the Bay of Kotor. We will benefit from neighboring wars by trading with the belliguered sides, provided we don't get caught in the middle of it ourselves.
+10% Trade Efficiency
Christian Syncretism
We will not be shaken by the same weakness that is historically troubling Bosnia. Christians of either allegiance shall be tolerated within the boundaries of our realm.
+1 Tolerance of Heretics
Flexible Diplomacy
In order to survive between greater powers in the region, we need a proactive and flexible foreign policy, and people who can achieve these diplomatic feats. We are a stabilizing factor in the region, and we will use this fact to suit only our own needs.
+30% Improve Relations
Balkan Uskoks
By hiring traditional maritime, river and road brigands of the area, we shall have a pesky army that no one wants to chase into our vast mountain gorges and killing fields.
+10% Movement Speed
+5% Morale of Armies
Religious endowments
We shall patronize all native religious legacy in the region, and staunchly support building of new monasteries and buildings to nurture the culture of peoples inhabiting our lands.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Merciless highlands
Anyone who lingers the mountain of Čemerno shall meet their end, armies will get disoriented and tired from the silent and brutal landscape. Naturally, our ambushers will wait on the other side of extremely cold weather, scarcity of food and unstable terrain.
-10% Hostile Movement Speed
Ambition
+1 Leader Maneuver
+20% Religious Unity
-10% Construction Cost
Ideas
Duchy of Saint Sava
By adopting the title of Duke of Saint Sava, we shall strengthen bonds with Serbia and enforce our political and religious independence from Bosnia.
+2 Tolerance of True Faith
Salt Trade
Our family has realized that our true economic potential is trading in salt through our port in the Bay of Kotor. We will benefit from neighboring wars by trading with the belliguered sides, provided we don't get caught in the middle of it ourselves.
+10% Trade Efficiency
Christian Syncretism
We will not be shaken by the same weakness that is historically troubling Bosnia. Christians of either allegiance shall be tolerated within the boundaries of our realm.
+1 Tolerance of Heretics
Flexible Diplomacy
In order to survive between greater powers in the region, we need a proactive and flexible foreign policy, and people who can achieve these diplomatic feats. We are a stabilizing factor in the region, and we will use this fact to suit only our own needs.
+30% Improve Relations
Balkan Uskoks
By hiring traditional maritime, river and road brigands of the area, we shall have a pesky army that no one wants to chase into our vast mountain gorges and killing fields.
+10% Movement Speed
+5% Morale of Armies
Religious endowments
We shall patronize all native religious legacy in the region, and staunchly support building of new monasteries and buildings to nurture the culture of peoples inhabiting our lands.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Merciless highlands
Anyone who lingers the mountain of Čemerno shall meet their end, armies will get disoriented and tired from the silent and brutal landscape. Naturally, our ambushers will wait on the other side of extremely cold weather, scarcity of food and unstable terrain.
-10% Hostile Movement Speed
Ambition
+1 Leader Maneuver
Traditions
-10% Infantry Cost
+15% Foreign Core Creation Cost
Patrician Families
The many patrician families within the city have held influence over the office of Podestà, providing a wealth of potential advisors seeking to win over his favour.
-15% Advisor Cost
Walls of Tergeste
The ancient Roman city of Tergeste on which Trieste was built remains well-defended thanks to large fortifications built in the medieval era, reinforced by the ever-imposing slopes of the Julian Alps descending into the Adriatic. Building on these defenses, our city will be impenetrable!
+1 Yearly Prestige
Relics of San Giusto
The ancient saint and martyr Saint Justus was drowned in the Gulf of Trieste by Roman pagans. With the saint's sacred relics still being enshrined in the Basilica which bears his name, we can rest assured that the grace of God is with us!
+2 Tolerance of the True Faith
Slavonic Investors
Slavs, particularly Slovene peasants along the periphery of the city, as well as Serbian merchants and investors conducting business within its walls, have made several significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of Trieste as a Free Port of the Empire.
-10% Construction Cost
Cosmopolitan Society
With many languages and religions evident throughout the many quarters of Trieste, including Germans, Slavs, and Latins, the city has developed a fairly cosmopolitan character, with policies intended ti ensure that all ethnic groups remain content with the status quo.
-1 National Unrest
Free Port of the Empire
Being elevated to the status of Free Port of the Empire in 1719, Trieste would see a boom in prosperity as trade flourished, with goods being brought into the Empire from around the globe. Such bountiful wealth is therefore ours for the taking!
+10% Global Trade Power Modifier
+5% Production Efficiency
City of Mercury and Apollo
Since antiquity Trieste has been associated with the classical pagan deities of Mercury and Apollo, and with its growth as a major center of trade, the city has certainly owned up to such an illustrious title!
+1 Yearly Prestige
Ambition
-10% Ship Cost
-10% Infantry Cost
+15% Foreign Core Creation Cost
Patrician Families
The many patrician families within the city have held influence over the office of Podestà, providing a wealth of potential advisors seeking to win over his favour.
-15% Advisor Cost
Walls of Tergeste
The ancient Roman city of Tergeste on which Trieste was built remains well-defended thanks to large fortifications built in the medieval era, reinforced by the ever-imposing slopes of the Julian Alps descending into the Adriatic. Building on these defenses, our city will be impenetrable!
+1 Yearly Prestige
Relics of San Giusto
The ancient saint and martyr Saint Justus was drowned in the Gulf of Trieste by Roman pagans. With the saint's sacred relics still being enshrined in the Basilica which bears his name, we can rest assured that the grace of God is with us!
+2 Tolerance of the True Faith
Slavonic Investors
Slavs, particularly Slovene peasants along the periphery of the city, as well as Serbian merchants and investors conducting business within its walls, have made several significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of Trieste as a Free Port of the Empire.
-10% Construction Cost
Cosmopolitan Society
With many languages and religions evident throughout the many quarters of Trieste, including Germans, Slavs, and Latins, the city has developed a fairly cosmopolitan character, with policies intended ti ensure that all ethnic groups remain content with the status quo.
-1 National Unrest
Free Port of the Empire
Being elevated to the status of Free Port of the Empire in 1719, Trieste would see a boom in prosperity as trade flourished, with goods being brought into the Empire from around the globe. Such bountiful wealth is therefore ours for the taking!
+10% Global Trade Power Modifier
+5% Production Efficiency
City of Mercury and Apollo
Since antiquity Trieste has been associated with the classical pagan deities of Mercury and Apollo, and with its growth as a major center of trade, the city has certainly owned up to such an illustrious title!
+1 Yearly Prestige
Ambition
-10% Ship Cost
Traditions
+10% Trade Efficiency
+10% Global Trade Power
Walls of Ston
Being among the largest of fortifications in the world, the ancient walls surrounding the old city of Dubrovnik and the town of Ston provide an almost impenetrable barrier to foreign invasion.
+10% Fort Defense
The South Slavic Athens
Taking part in the larger Italian Renaissance, Ragusa was home to many influential scientists, artists, architects, and civil engineers. With some of the most advanced sewage systems in Europe, the first ever pharmacy, and a multitude of other cultural and technological achievements, the city has come to be known as both the "Pearl of the Adriatic" and the "South Slavic Athens"
-5% Idea cost
-10% Institution Embracement Cost
Patronage
Our maritime affairs and land trading has significant success under the patronage of Constantinople. By paying them a symbolic tribute we can maintain our independence and receive trading benefits. Historically, in 1481 Ragusa passed into Ottoman protection by paying an increased tribute of 12,500 ducats. For all other purposes, Ragusa was virtually independent.
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
Ragusan Arsenal
Ships are needed both for our own protection and to support our extensive trading networks across the Mediterranean. A strong naval presence will make Ragusa one of the leading maritime forces in the world.
+20% Naval Force Limit
Port Gruž
The old shipyard situated in Ragusa could not please the great demands of our maritime affairs. Therefore, the construction of a new shipyard in Port Gruž has started. Historically, in 1525 a major shipyard in Port Gruž was built along with smaller shipyards elsewhere to meet demands.
-5% Shipbuilding Time
-5% Ship Costs
Ragusan Craftsmen
With many skilled craftsmen throughout the city, Dubrovnik has become home to a multitude of manufacturies involved in the production of valuable goods such as glass and dyes. These goods will bring further prosperity to our republic!
+10% Production Efficiency
Palace of the Rector
The Rector's palace is the seat of our government and the residence of our Prince. Historically, the rector held considerable influence, however, real power was held in the hands of three councils that were held by the nobility.
+1 Yearly Prestige
Ambition
+10% Morale of Navies
+10% Trade Efficiency
+10% Global Trade Power
Walls of Ston
Being among the largest of fortifications in the world, the ancient walls surrounding the old city of Dubrovnik and the town of Ston provide an almost impenetrable barrier to foreign invasion.
+10% Fort Defense
The South Slavic Athens
Taking part in the larger Italian Renaissance, Ragusa was home to many influential scientists, artists, architects, and civil engineers. With some of the most advanced sewage systems in Europe, the first ever pharmacy, and a multitude of other cultural and technological achievements, the city has come to be known as both the "Pearl of the Adriatic" and the "South Slavic Athens"
-5% Idea cost
-10% Institution Embracement Cost
Patronage
Our maritime affairs and land trading has significant success under the patronage of Constantinople. By paying them a symbolic tribute we can maintain our independence and receive trading benefits. Historically, in 1481 Ragusa passed into Ottoman protection by paying an increased tribute of 12,500 ducats. For all other purposes, Ragusa was virtually independent.
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
Ragusan Arsenal
Ships are needed both for our own protection and to support our extensive trading networks across the Mediterranean. A strong naval presence will make Ragusa one of the leading maritime forces in the world.
+20% Naval Force Limit
Port Gruž
The old shipyard situated in Ragusa could not please the great demands of our maritime affairs. Therefore, the construction of a new shipyard in Port Gruž has started. Historically, in 1525 a major shipyard in Port Gruž was built along with smaller shipyards elsewhere to meet demands.
-5% Shipbuilding Time
-5% Ship Costs
Ragusan Craftsmen
With many skilled craftsmen throughout the city, Dubrovnik has become home to a multitude of manufacturies involved in the production of valuable goods such as glass and dyes. These goods will bring further prosperity to our republic!
+10% Production Efficiency
Palace of the Rector
The Rector's palace is the seat of our government and the residence of our Prince. Historically, the rector held considerable influence, however, real power was held in the hands of three councils that were held by the nobility.
+1 Yearly Prestige
Ambition
+10% Morale of Navies
Traditions
-2 National Unrest
+1 Attrition for Enemies
Gorizian Markets
Occupying a key waypoint between Vienna and Venice, Gorizia has developed as a regional trade hub connecting German and Italian trade through the Alps, leading to a highly prosperous state. The benefits of this will certainly serve us greatly!
+10% Provincial Trade Power Modifier
Free Imperial County
With immediacy under the Emperor themself, we have established ourselves as free from our former masters in Aquileia, and have become a full Princely County of the Empire in our own right, enjoying all the rights which such a position entails.
+1 Yearly Prestige
Appanages
Having grown to hold influence over multiple realms, the Meinhardiner established many cadet branches which would rule lands across the Alpine region before eventually dying out.
+1 Diplomatic Relations
-10% Aggressive Expansion Impact
Carantanian Heritage
Though having reoriented themselves towards Germany, the origins of the County of Gorizia and the Meinhardiner nonetheless remain as a Slovene noble family, with many Slavs still holding positions of influence within the state.
+2 Max Promoted Cultures
The Patriarchate of Aquilea
Despite having asserted their independent status, Gorizia very much remained under the influence of the Patriarchs of Aquileia, having been their former vassals. We must claim this legacy to advance the holy faith and legitimize our rule!
+1 Tolerance of the True Faith
+1% Missionary Strength
Alpine Defenses
The insurmountable size of the Julian Alps has created natural defensive fortifications sheltering our holdings from outside invasion through their virtually unpassable terrain; a great advantage for us Gorizian defenders.
+10% Fort Defense
German Settlement Encouraged
As the Meinhardiner continue to orient themselves towards a more German outlook, the best and brightest of that realm are being invited to settle Gorizian lands and to assist in the further advancement of the state.
-10% Development Cost
Ambition
+10% National Tax Modifier
-2 National Unrest
+1 Attrition for Enemies
Gorizian Markets
Occupying a key waypoint between Vienna and Venice, Gorizia has developed as a regional trade hub connecting German and Italian trade through the Alps, leading to a highly prosperous state. The benefits of this will certainly serve us greatly!
+10% Provincial Trade Power Modifier
Free Imperial County
With immediacy under the Emperor themself, we have established ourselves as free from our former masters in Aquileia, and have become a full Princely County of the Empire in our own right, enjoying all the rights which such a position entails.
+1 Yearly Prestige
Appanages
Having grown to hold influence over multiple realms, the Meinhardiner established many cadet branches which would rule lands across the Alpine region before eventually dying out.
+1 Diplomatic Relations
-10% Aggressive Expansion Impact
Carantanian Heritage
Though having reoriented themselves towards Germany, the origins of the County of Gorizia and the Meinhardiner nonetheless remain as a Slovene noble family, with many Slavs still holding positions of influence within the state.
+2 Max Promoted Cultures
The Patriarchate of Aquilea
Despite having asserted their independent status, Gorizia very much remained under the influence of the Patriarchs of Aquileia, having been their former vassals. We must claim this legacy to advance the holy faith and legitimize our rule!
+1 Tolerance of the True Faith
+1% Missionary Strength
Alpine Defenses
The insurmountable size of the Julian Alps has created natural defensive fortifications sheltering our holdings from outside invasion through their virtually unpassable terrain; a great advantage for us Gorizian defenders.
+10% Fort Defense
German Settlement Encouraged
As the Meinhardiner continue to orient themselves towards a more German outlook, the best and brightest of that realm are being invited to settle Gorizian lands and to assist in the further advancement of the state.
-10% Development Cost
Ambition
+10% National Tax Modifier
Traditions
+1 Yearly Prestige
+1 Attrition for Enemies
Ulrik's Legacy
Perhaps the most influential of the Counts of Cilli, Ulrik II was at times of the most influential statesman in Central Europe, holding sway over the thrones of both Hungary and Bohemia, greatly increasing foreign ties in the process.
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
+1 Diplomatic Relations
Archdiocese of Ljubljana
On September 6th 1462, the Diocese of Ljubljana was separated from the Patriarchate of Aquileia by the Pope, and would be elevated to an Archdiocese in 1787: a key affirmation of the Slovene people.
+1% Missionary Strength
March of Carinthia
Successor of the Slovene Duchy of Carantania, the March of Carinthia would grow to be one of the predominant powers before falling to the Habsburgs, with its recovery becoming an ambition of the Slovenes for centuries afterwards.
-10% Aggressive Expansion Impact
Balkan Refuge
After the fall of Serbia, Bosnia, and parts of Croatia to the Ottomans, many sought refuge in the Slovene lands, eventually integrating themselves with the native population and boosting our overall economic strength.
+7.5% National Tax Modifier
+7.5% National Manpower Modifier
Catechismus and Abecedarium
The first works published in the Slovene language, the Catechismus and Abecedarium were among the first steps towards the standardization of the Slovene language, leading to a greater sense of unity among our people.
-2 National Unrest
Illyrian Provinces
Born out of military aggression, the Illyrian provinces represent a union of the Slovene lands with Dalmatia and the Croat territories south of the Sava river, bringing multiple different peoples under one polity.
+2 Max Promoted Cultures
Heirs of Carantania
The legacy of the powerful Duchy of Carantania is one the Slovenes have been trying to reclaim for centuries, and as our state grows in power, that goal grows closer within our sights.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Ambition
+10% Goods Produced Modifier
+1 Yearly Prestige
+1 Attrition for Enemies
Ulrik's Legacy
Perhaps the most influential of the Counts of Cilli, Ulrik II was at times of the most influential statesman in Central Europe, holding sway over the thrones of both Hungary and Bohemia, greatly increasing foreign ties in the process.
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
+1 Diplomatic Relations
Archdiocese of Ljubljana
On September 6th 1462, the Diocese of Ljubljana was separated from the Patriarchate of Aquileia by the Pope, and would be elevated to an Archdiocese in 1787: a key affirmation of the Slovene people.
+1% Missionary Strength
March of Carinthia
Successor of the Slovene Duchy of Carantania, the March of Carinthia would grow to be one of the predominant powers before falling to the Habsburgs, with its recovery becoming an ambition of the Slovenes for centuries afterwards.
-10% Aggressive Expansion Impact
Balkan Refuge
After the fall of Serbia, Bosnia, and parts of Croatia to the Ottomans, many sought refuge in the Slovene lands, eventually integrating themselves with the native population and boosting our overall economic strength.
+7.5% National Tax Modifier
+7.5% National Manpower Modifier
Catechismus and Abecedarium
The first works published in the Slovene language, the Catechismus and Abecedarium were among the first steps towards the standardization of the Slovene language, leading to a greater sense of unity among our people.
-2 National Unrest
Illyrian Provinces
Born out of military aggression, the Illyrian provinces represent a union of the Slovene lands with Dalmatia and the Croat territories south of the Sava river, bringing multiple different peoples under one polity.
+2 Max Promoted Cultures
Heirs of Carantania
The legacy of the powerful Duchy of Carantania is one the Slovenes have been trying to reclaim for centuries, and as our state grows in power, that goal grows closer within our sights.
+1 Yearly Legitimacy
Ambition
+10% Goods Produced Modifier
Traditions
+4 Tolerance of heretics
-20% Galley cost
Byzantine Ties
+1 yearly Legitimacy
As a reward for our service to the Byzantine Emperor John V, Lesbos was granted as a fief to the Francesco Gattilusi. in addition, countless marriages have been concluded between the Palaiologos dynasty and our own, solidifying our claim as the legitimate ruler of these islands.
Castle of Mytilene
+10% Fort Defense
At the center of Lesbos' administrative center of Mytilene lies a Castle which has stood for centuries. Upon acquiring the island, the Gattilusio family made extensive repairs and alterations to the fortress to help withstand any threat.
Alum Mines of Lesbos
+10% Production Efficiency
Since Antiquity, the sulfate Alum has been mined in Lesbos. Upon taking control of the island, the Gattilusio family became heavily involved in the mining and trading of Alum in Lesbos, which is useful textile production and desired throughout Europe.
Maritime Nation
+0.5 Yearly Navy Tradition
+10% Galley Combat Ability
The Lordship of Lesbos is mainly comprised of islands, and the only sure way of protecting ourselves is to have a strong navy to prevent any invader from even stepping foot on our islands.
Genoese Trade
+10% Trade Efficiency
The Genoese have long desired to dominate the Alum market, even going to war with Venice over control of the industry, and so they trade with us extensively.
Western and Eastern Contacts
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
Lesbos and the Gattilusio family maintain extensive ties with the Byzantines, Genoese and Venetians. Alliances with these powers have proven beneficial in the past for protection against the Turkish threat.
Gattilusio Claims
-25% Claim Fabrication Cost
At their height, the Gattilusio family ruled not only Lesbos, but several other Aegean islands and even governed a few mainland cities. If we are to rise to greatness we must assert our rightful claims.
Ambitions
+10% Global Trade Power
+4 Tolerance of heretics
-20% Galley cost
Byzantine Ties
+1 yearly Legitimacy
As a reward for our service to the Byzantine Emperor John V, Lesbos was granted as a fief to the Francesco Gattilusi. in addition, countless marriages have been concluded between the Palaiologos dynasty and our own, solidifying our claim as the legitimate ruler of these islands.
Castle of Mytilene
+10% Fort Defense
At the center of Lesbos' administrative center of Mytilene lies a Castle which has stood for centuries. Upon acquiring the island, the Gattilusio family made extensive repairs and alterations to the fortress to help withstand any threat.
Alum Mines of Lesbos
+10% Production Efficiency
Since Antiquity, the sulfate Alum has been mined in Lesbos. Upon taking control of the island, the Gattilusio family became heavily involved in the mining and trading of Alum in Lesbos, which is useful textile production and desired throughout Europe.
Maritime Nation
+0.5 Yearly Navy Tradition
+10% Galley Combat Ability
The Lordship of Lesbos is mainly comprised of islands, and the only sure way of protecting ourselves is to have a strong navy to prevent any invader from even stepping foot on our islands.
Genoese Trade
+10% Trade Efficiency
The Genoese have long desired to dominate the Alum market, even going to war with Venice over control of the industry, and so they trade with us extensively.
Western and Eastern Contacts
+1 Diplomatic Reputation
Lesbos and the Gattilusio family maintain extensive ties with the Byzantines, Genoese and Venetians. Alliances with these powers have proven beneficial in the past for protection against the Turkish threat.
Gattilusio Claims
-25% Claim Fabrication Cost
At their height, the Gattilusio family ruled not only Lesbos, but several other Aegean islands and even governed a few mainland cities. If we are to rise to greatness we must assert our rightful claims.
Ambitions
+10% Global Trade Power
Credits
- @Dieselface for a beautifully modded map and insight on Greece, Aegean Isles and Cyprus.
- @Sanguine Caesar for his great contributions in Dalmatia, Slovenia, and the beautifully-made mission trees.
- @Mingmung for his dedication to accuracy, insight on Bulgaria/Ottoman Empire and Byzantium
- @Kane_hun for his help with Hungarian dynamic names and more
- @staycool. a lot of inspiration for the Serbian NI came from his own ideas.
Putting this thread together was a long process, and though we didn't yet finish everything, we were methodical in every change we made. However, if you want to get into more specifics in the region, such as extra information, unique events and such, I would direct you to @Sanguine Caesar 's threads on Croatia-Slavonia, and Venetian and Ragusan Dalmatia, @Mingmung 's Rumelia thread, @Dieselface 's all-insightful Greece thread, and my own thread addressing Serbia and East Adriatic.
In the following days, expect to see all NI sets having descriptions, and we will post a full spreadsheet of all provinces in the region, with their development, and more specific province info, as well as hundreds of dynamic names, etc.
Discuss!
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