TITLE: Republic of Fortland
ARTIST: Mathis Barreau (architect)
YEAR: 2570s (estimated)
TYPE: Originally constructed as an off-shore anti-aircraft gun platform
OWNER: Geoffrey Briggs
LOCATION: Odufart Sea, off the coast of Noumonde
VALUATION: Estimates vary between $300,000 and $900,000
OVERVIEW: "Fortland", originally known as the "Barreau Tower" after the name of its architect, was constructed by Rildanor during the 2570s in order to protect shipping lanes between Noumonde, its newly-acquired colony, and south Seleya.
Governments have long since abandoned the installation. Technically, it was built illegally as it falls outside of Noumonde's territorial waters, and under international law is considered "terra nullius" or "nobody's land".
Recently, Fortland has been commandeered by Geoffrey Briggs, a retired major in the Luthori army and a noted eccentric. Briggs has set himself up there along with his wife, Shirley. His son, Henry, and daughter, Elizabeth, occasionally stay him with as well.
On 14th April 4459, Briggs released a "Declaration of Statehood", declaring the structure to be its own country, to be known as the "Republic of Fortland", of which he is President. The Declaration calls on other nations to formally recognise Fortland and establish diplomatic relations, and also
calls on the World Congress to admit Fortland as a member.
As well as being Terra's newest nation and a country with great aspirations for the future which personifies the ideals of liberty, justice and equality, Fortland is also a splendid work of art from a purely architectural point of view, as well as a unique historical artifact, being one of only four installations of its type and of its era anywhere in Terra. Artists regularly come to draw it, and photographers to photograph it. In addition to this, Fortland hosts small permanent and temporary art exhibitions, making it a much-loved destination for art luvvies.