Orlais, or the Orlesian Empire, is currently the most powerful nation in Thedas. Val Royeaux is the capital of Orlais, and home to the Chantry. Orlais is ruled by Empress Celene I. Amongst its previous rulers were Emperor Reville and Emperor Florian. It was founded by the Emperor Kordillus Drakon, the man who established the Chantry. A century ago, Orlais conquered Ferelden, but was repulsed 30 years ago by King Maric.
Society
The current Empress has led a resurgence in Imperial prestige with her focus on art and education. She has also given prominent Orlesian thinkers positions at court. In imitation of their Empress, the general aristocracy has also begun to promote scholarship and the arts, leading to a cultural renaissance of sorts.
Aristocratic society is vicious and marked by fawning envy to the powerful.
Politics
In Orlais, land is owned exclusively by the aristocracy.
Regions
Val Royeaux is the capital of Orlais.
Montsimmard is a city in Orlais.
Trivia
- The character Leliana is culturally Orlesian.
- Orlais is loosely based on the real-world Kingdom of France. Orlesian characters speak with French accents, and their knights are referred to as "chevaliers".
- Orlais was once called Arles. The name was changed because Arles is a real region in France.[1]