Deserto - Tempio: Where the Occult Prevails

The Desert–Temple Neighborhood lies south of the Monumental–Temple and Historic Center neighborhoods, bordered by the river. Once largely unused, it now combines spiritual, civic, and residential functions, reflecting both the city’s early esoteric ambitions and recent urban expansion.

From the earliest days of Cismarina, the neighborhood hosted the first Desert Temple, a structure designed for beauty and esoteric purposes rather than practical use. Over time, a small settlement grew around a naturally occurring well, including working Villagers, a governor’s residence, and a chapel. In later years, the desert to the west was annexed, doubling the neighborhood’s size and allowing the construction of the Government Hall, the “Governo” metro stop, and the extension of Central Avenue, culminating in the New Temple.

The neighborhood is organized along a clear axis connecting the Historic Center to the western desert. Two main streets cross the area: one leads to the bridge toward the Jungle Neighborhood (now home to the Upper Parliament), and another connects to the Riverine Neighborhood. Ancient and modern structures coexist, with the original Desert Temple preserved near the river and the New Temple dominating the western expansion. Civic and ceremonial functions are concentrated near the Government Hall and Central Avenue.

Desert Temple ("Tempio del Deserto")

One of the earliest structures built with esoteric intent in the city’s history. It was erected in what was considered a remote and difficult-to-reach location at the time, though today it stands very close to the buildings of the Historic Center. The temple has three floors, various trees, multiple fountains, and a pier on the river. Remarkably, it has undergone no modifications since its construction. Although the kings who built it left no trace of associated rituals or cults, it is believed that the temple was primarily placed in the desert for its beauty.

New Temple ("Tempio Nuovo")

Constructed relatively recently, it is the largest esoteric temple ever built. Designed in classical Greek style and modeled on the Parthenon, it features extremely tall quartz columns, a main hall for rituals, and a second hall at the rear whose purpose has never been revealed. It is considered one of the wonders of the city and the Republic, and its construction required enormous resources and great effort from both the governors and the city of Cismarina.

Government Hall ("Sala del Governo")

The final wing added to the Government Palace complex. Its primary purpose is to host the Council of Ministers, typically before a parliamentary session in which the Governor makes official declarations. The hall contains a stone podium, an enormous central table, and is lined with bookshelves.