Principality of Sancratosia

This article is about the sovereign state. For the municipality, see Municipality of Sancratosia.

Principality of Sancratosia Prinsia de Sancratosia (Lingua Franca Nova)
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: Monarcia bonvolente (Lingua Franca Nova) Benevolent monarchy
Anthem: Imno nasional de Sancratosia National Anthem of Sancratosia
General location of Sancratosia in North America
Capital and largest municipality	Sancratosia
Official languages	Lingua Franca Nova
Recognised national languages	French English
Promoted languages	Gestuno Italian Portuguese
Demonym(s)	Sancratosian
Government	Unitary semi-constitutional monarchy
• Sovereign	Princess Cloe
• Minister of State	Cristian Neuton
Legislature	National Council
Sovereign state
• Declaration of independence	1 December 2021
Area
• Total	574.20 km2 (221.70 sq mi)
Population
• 2023 estimate	106
Currency	Sancratosian impresa () (SNI)
Time zone	UTC−05:00 (Eastern Time Zone)
• Summer (DST)	UTC-04:00 (Eastern Daylight Time)
Date format	dd-mm-yyyy CE dd/mm/yyyy CE
Driving side	right
Calling code	761 (Proposed)
GUM 3-letter code	SNC
IMSO 1 code	SN
Internet TLD	.org
Website sancratosia.org

Sancratosia (/sɑːn.kræ.toʊ.ʒə/ (listen); Lingua Franca Nova pronunciation: /san.kra.to.sia/ (listen)), officially the Principality of Sancratosia (Lingua Franca Nova: Prinsia de Sancratosia), is a self-proclaimed sovereign state operating within an extraterritorial territory located in North America. It is classified as a micronation by most external observers. The nation declared its independence on 1 December 2021.

The official language of Sancratosia is Lingua Franca Nova, an auxiliary constructed language also known colloquially as Elefen. This makes Sancratosia one of the first nations to adopt the language as its official language. Despite Lingua Franca Nova's official status, French and English are more commonly used and spoken. These two languages are also recognized as national languages.

Sancratosia operates as a semi-constitutional monarchy where the sovereign personally exercises power in concert with other institutions. Unlike traditional monarchies, the monarch's power is derived from the people rather than from divine right.

Sancratosia is a member of several intermicronational organisations, including the MicroFrancophonie, the Grand Unified Micronational, the Conference of Santiago, the International Aerospace Community, and the Micronation Postal Association. The Principality was represented at MicroCon 2022 and MicroCon 2023 and will co-host MicroCon 2025. Sancratosia also co-hosts the annual Digi Micro Summit.

Etymology

See also: Names of Sancratosia

Sancratosia's name is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "σαν" (san), meaning "like a; as a," and "κράτος" (kratos), meaning "state." The name reflects the aspiration to establish a nation considered equal to other nations. On 21 October 2021, the name was officially adopted, a date now celebrated as Emergence Day in Sancratosia.

History

Main article: History of Sancratosia

Emergence of Sancratosia

Main article: Emergence of Sancratosia

Rise of micronational interest

In the early 2000s, Chloé Fortin Côté, the future leader of Sancratosia, developed an interest in the phenomenon of micronations, particularly the nations of Sealand and Molossia. This interest was rekindled many years later during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns, initially manifesting in the hobby of worldbuilding.

Brainstorming for an identity

In late October 2021, the Government of Quebec introduced new articles to Bill 2, An Act to reform family law with respect to filiation and to amend the Civil Code with respect to personality rights and civil status. These articles posed a threat to trans rights in the province. In response, Chloé conceived a protest against the bill and other actions taken by the Government since its election in 2018. Chloé decided that the creation of a micronation would be an ideal method for this protest, transforming a hobby of worldbuilding into the formal declaration of independence.

The brainstorming process for this micronation began on 16 October 2021. By 21 October 2021, the name "Sancratosia" was chosen, marking the Emergence of Sancratosia.

Initially, the envisioned government was a constitutional state, inspired by the constitutions of lusophone countries such as Cabo Verde and Mozambique. However, the extensive governmental structures of these larger states and the desire to maintain long-term control over the nation's direction led to reconsideration. Other historical constitutions, such as the Constitution of the July Monarchy and Portugal's Constitutional Charter of 1826, were also examined. Ultimately, Chloé found inspiration in the Constitution and culture of Monaco, which became the primary influences guiding the formation of Sancratosia.

Early development

Independence

Main article: Declaration of independence of the Principality of Sancratosia

On 24 November 2021, it was decided that the form of government for Sancratosia would be a principality, transitioning from the initially proposed constitutional state. Chloé Fortin Côté assumed the title of Sovereign Princess, adopting the regnal name Princess Cloe of Sancratosia, with the "H" omitted in alignment with Lingua Franca Nova.

After a week of drafting, the Declaration of independence was officially signed by Sovereign Princess Cloe, marking her first official act in office.

First year

Following the independence of Sancratosia, the nascent state faced the challenges of establishing a functional government. To address this, a Sovereign Ordinance granting temporary absolute power to the Sovereign Princess was promulgated on 2 December 2021. This ordinance allowed the passage of laws in the absence of an elected National Council, primarily focusing on cultural elements such as national symbols and public holidays. Notably, it included the Law on the provisions against discrimination, a significant legislative measure for LGBT rights in Sancratosia.

On 11 January 2022, Cristian Neuton was appointed as the first Minister of State of Sancratosia.

The virtual representation of the Municipality of Sancratosia was launched on 5 February 2022 in the form of a Discord server. This initiative, suggested by Neuton, aimed to gather Sancratosians in one place for discussions on various topics, to keep foreign heads of state and diplomats informed about the Principality and for the establishment of virtual embassies.

The Sovereign Princess had her first official meeting with another micronational leader on 19 March 2022. Minister-President Dominic Desaintes of Saint-Castin met with Princess Cloe to discuss Quebec politics and other micronational topics.

On 1 June 2022, to mark the six-month anniversary of Sancratosia, ePorteta was officially launched. This intranet portal, reserved for citizens, provided the Principality with a direct means of communication and a centralized platform for delivering services to its citizens.

One year anniversary

One year anniversary logo.

Celebrations for the one-year anniversary of Sancratosia commenced on 19 October 2022, as the Principality began its countdown to Emergence Day. The festivities included the unveiling of the first permanent stamp series issued by Posta de Sancratosia, the inaugural State of the Principality of Sancratosia address, and the registration of the country's first private business. Additionally, the Principality introduced a special anniversary logo, which also served as the basis for a commemorative stamp series.

Francophone development

In early 2023, the Principality of Sancratosia initiated efforts to enhance its francophone presence, particularly in Quebec and within the international French-speaking community. As part of this initiative, the Principality formalized diplomatic relations with Saint-Castin and Aigues-Mortes, joined the regional Laurentian Micronational Cooperative Union, and was admitted to the Organisation de la MicroFrancophonie.

Politics

Main article: Politics of Sancratosia

Government

Main article: Structure of the government of Sancratosia

Princess Cloe, January 2019.

According to the Constitution, Sancratosia is governed as a constitutional monarchy, with the Sovereign Princess of Sancratosia serving as the head of state. Executive power is exercised, in the name of the Sovereign, by the Minister of State, who acts as the head of government and presides over the Government Council.

The prerogative to propose and promulgate laws resides with the Sovereign Princess, while the National Council has the authority to modify and adopt these laws. This shared legislative power extends to any revisions of the Constitution.

Foreign relations

Main article: Foreign relations of Sancratosia

Sancratosia's presentation table at MicroCon 2022.

Sancratosia adheres to the declarative theory of statehood, which asserts that any entity possessing a defined territory, a permanent population, a functioning government, and the ability to engage with other micronational states is de facto recognized by Sancratosia. However, de jure recognition is withheld from states whose ideologies align with the far-right spectrum. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains an official list of states that have received mutual recognition from Sancratosia.

The Principality is a signatory to several conventions and agreements, including the Wrythe Convention, the Edgbaston Convention, the Augusta Accord and the Protocol of Klöw.

On 20 February 2022, Sancratosia became the second micronation surrounded by Canada to be admitted as a member of the Conference of Santiago. On 3 October 2022, it attained membership in the Grand Unified Micronational. Additionally, Sancratosia actively participates in the Francophone micronational community, holding membership in the Organisation de la MicroFrancophonie and the Laurentian Micronational Cooperative Union, a regional alliance with the Newgraviate of Saint-Castin and the Principality of Beremagne.

Princess Cloe represented Sancratosia at both MicroCon 2022 and MicroCon 2023, fostering informal diplomatic relations with numerous micronations including the Ambulatory Free States of Obsidia, the Royal Republic of Ladonia, the Kingdom of Ruritania, the Republic of West Who, the United Slabovian Empire, the Aerican Empire and the Republic of Molossia.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Sancratosia

Fog forming above the river on a winter morning near the Sancratosian extraterritorial territory.

Sancratosia is situated in Northern America, completely surrounded by Canada within the province of Quebec. It is located on the Saint-Lawrence River and shares borders with the Montérégie region.

The principality is in close proximity to the Newgraviate of Saint-Castin and the Aerican Empire.

Time

The Principality of Sancratosia operates within the Eastern Time Zone. By law, the official time in Sancratosia aligns with that of its immediate neighbor, the Province of Quebec.

Climate

Sancratosia experiences a climate identical to the southern part of Quebec. It falls under the warm-summer humid continental climate category (Köppen climate classification: Dfb).

The government of Sancratosia obtains its climate data from official Canadian sources specific to the region of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield.

Climate data for Sancratosia
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Average high °C (°F)	−5.4 (22.3)	−3.2 (26.2)	2.3 (36.1)	11.2 (52.2)	18.7 (65.7)	23.8 (74.8)	26.1 (79)	25.3 (77.5)	20.6 (69.1)	12.8 (55)	5.8 (42.4)	−1.4 (29.5)	11.4 (52.5)
Daily mean °C (°F)	−9.6 (14.7)	−7.8 (18)	−2.2 (28)	6.3 (43.3)	13.3 (55.9)	18.7 (65.7)	21.1 (70)	20.2 (68.4)	15.6 (60.1)	8.6 (47.5)	2.2 (36)	−5.1 (22.8)	6.8 (44.2)
Average low °C (°F)	−13.8 (7.2)	−12.3 (9.9)	−6.7 (19.9)	1.3 (34.3)	7.9 (46.2)	13.5 (56.3)	16.0 (60.8)	15.1 (59.2)	10.6 (51.1)	4.3 (39.7)	−1.4 (29.5)	−8.8 (16.2)	2.1 (35.8)
Average Precipitation mm (inches)	74.8 (2.945)	59.3 (2.335)	61.9 (2.437)	77.3 (3.043)	82.9 (3.264)	94.7 (3.728)	97.6 (3.843)	92.5 (3.642)	82.6 (3.252)	92.0 (3.622)	85.7 (3.374)	76.8 (3.024)	978.0 (38.504)
Average Rainfall mm (inches)	24.2 (0.953)	19.9 (0.783)	31.9 (1.256)	70.3 (2.768)	82.9 (3.264)	97.4 (3.835)	97.6 (3.843)	92.5 (3.642)	82.6 (3.252)	90.6 (3.567)	74.4 (2.929)	33.1 (1.303)	794.7 (31.287)
Average Snowfall cm (inches)	50.6 (19.92)	39.3 (15.47)	30.1 (11.85)	7.2 (2.83)	0.0 (0)	0.0 (0)	0.0 (0)	0.0 (0)	0.0 (0)	1.3 (0.51)	11.3 (4.45)	43.7 (17.2)	183.5 (72.24)
Source: Environment Canada

Territorial status

Sancratosia maintains two distinct territorial statuses: operational and symbolic.

In a symbolic gesture, Sancratosia has asserted a territorial claim in the Montérégie region spanning an area of 574.20 km (356.79 mi). This claim encompasses the entirety of the Beauharnois-Salaberry Regional County Municipality, an area historically associated with members of the House of Sancratosia. The Principality does not exercise control over this territory, and the claim was officially formalized on 1 December 2023.

For its operational activities, Sancratosia designates the location from which it operates as an extraterritorial territory, asserting its sovereignty. However, this extraterritorial status has not received official recognition from the government of Canada.

Administrative divisions

Map of the administrative divisions of Sancratosia.

Main article: Municipality of Sancratosia

The Principality is administratively unified under a single municipality known as the municipality of Sancratosia. Geographically, there are no distinctions between the principality and the municipality; however, they differ in administrative competencies.

Municipal Districts

For administrative purposes, the municipality is currently subdivided into five districts:

• Altia Maria
• Costa Sabosa
• Jenoveva
• La Curiosia
• Sancratosia-Site

These districts serve to organize and manage local governance within the Principality of Sancratosia.

Economy

"Validi de produi orijinal de Sancratosia" label in the "Comunica" notebook produced by RBR Sancratosia.

Main article: Economy of Sancratosia

Sancratosia currently lacks a sustainable economy and relies entirely on the personal fortune of the House of Sancratosia for financial support. According to the Constitution, national budget allocations prioritize payments to the Sovereign Family before any other expenditures, resulting in all state revenues being directed to the Sovereign Family.

Taxes

Sancratosia applies a 25% value-added tax (VAT) on most goods and services, with prices typically displayed inclusive of VAT. There is no income tax imposed on citizens.

Currency

Main article: Sancratosian impresa

The official currency of Sancratosia is the Sancratosian impresa, commonly referred to as the Simpresa. Despite its official currency, transactions in Sancratosia also accept the Canadian dollar and the US dollar due to the close proximity to Canada and the United States.

Stamps

Main article: Posta de Sancratosia

Posta de Sancratosia oversees the issuance of postage stamps within the Principality and plays a significant role in its economic and diplomatic activities. Revenue generated from stamp sales constitutes a primary income source for the Principality. While Sancratosia operates its own postal administration, it utilizes Canada Post for the delivery of mail.

Original product certification

Saluta Sancratosia manages the "Validi de produi orijinal de Sancratosia" program (English: Certification of original product from Sancratosia), which serves as a country of origin labelling initiative akin to "Made in..." labels. The program outlines guidelines for companies seeking certification for their products.

Saluta Sancratosia produces and distributes labels to certified companies, ensuring compliance through random inspections.

Population

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Sancratosia

Sancratosians by status

  Sancratosian nationals (13.46%)

  Sancratosian residents (88.46%)

As of 2021, Sancratosia had a population of 3 individuals, consisting predominantly of residents rather than nationals. The Principality introduced its naturalization process and citizenship program at the beginning of 2022, resulting in a rapid increase in population. By 30 January 2022, less than a month after the program's launch, Sancratosia had expanded its citizenry to 10 individuals.

Individuals holding citizenship in Sancratosia, whether nationals or residents, are collectively referred to as "Sancratosians".

Citizenship

Main article: Sancratosian nationality law

The Principality of Sancratosia categorizes its citizens into two groups: nationals and residents. Sancratosian nationality is exclusive and cannot be held concurrently with citizenship from another nation; acquiring another nationality results in the forfeiture of Sancratosian citizenship. Exceptions may be considered for individuals unable to renounce their original nationality.

Residency status is open to all individuals, with certain restrictions on eligibility for political offices within Sancratosia.

The acquisition and restoration of nationality fall under the authority of the Sovereign Princess.

Language

Main article: Languages of Sancratosia

Lingua Franca Nova, colloquially known as Elefen, is designated as the official language of Sancratosia by the Constitution. Additionally, French and English are recognized as national languages.

Gestuno is a "promoted language" in Sancratosia. Previously, Quebec Sign Language served as the de facto official sign language due to the absence of a signed version of Lingua Franca Nova.

Influenced by Sancratosia's connections with Brazilian micronations and the personal interest of the Sovereign Princess, Portuguese has also been declared a "promoted language" alongside Italian and Gestuno.

Religion

Sancratosia is a secular state, distinguishing itself from traditional monarchies by not deriving its authority from a divine source. The Principality operates as a modern secular monarchy, with the monarch's authority stemming from the people of Sancratosia. The Principality upholds freedom of religion as a fundamental right.

Public holidays

Main article: Public holidays in Sancratosia

Public holidays in Sancratosia are typically observed by taking the day off work. If a holiday falls on a weekend or no work is scheduled on the upcoming holiday, the day off is observed on the nearest business day.

List of public holidays

• 1 January: New Year's Day
• 15 January: George Boeree Day
• 10 February: National Flag Day
• Third Monday of February: Sancratosians' Day
• 1 March: Sovereign Princess Day
• 21 March: Elefen Language Day
• 15 April: Duchess Maria I Day
• 1 May: Workers' Day
• Fourth Friday of May: Friendship's Day
• 10 June: Chives Day
• First Monday of September: Goose Day
• 21 October: Emergence Day
• 11 November: Martlet Day
• 1 December: Independence Day
• 17 December: Maple Day
• 25 December: Winter's Day

Culture

Main article: Culture of Sancratosia

The culture of Sancratosia reflects a blend of influences from Canadian, particularly Québécois, Monégasque, and French cultures, while also showcasing distinct characteristics shaped by the use of Lingua Franca Nova as its official language and its diverse population composed of naturalized individuals from around the globe.

National symbols

Main article: National symbols of Sancratosia

A mockup of the national flag of Sancratosia.

The Constitution of Sancratosia explicitly recognizes several national symbols, including the national flag, princely flag, and coat of arms. Additional symbols such as the national anthem are designated by legislation.

Flag

Main article: Flag of Sancratosia

The national flag of Sancratosia features a quartered design of red and white, mirroring the pattern found on the Principality's coat of arms. In contrast, the princely flag displays a white field with the full coat of arms at its center. While the national flag is used in all official capacities, the princely flag is predominantly reserved for occasions involving Sancratosian dignitaries like the Sovereign Princess or the Minister of State.

Coat of arms

Signature of the government of Sancratosia.

Main article: Coat of arms of Sancratosia

The coat of arms of Sancratosia serves as the principal symbol of the House of Sancratosia, the ruling dynasty. It enjoys widespread use across official documents and is prominently featured, in its smaller form, on the official signature of the government.

Sports

Main article: Sport in Sancratosia

The official sport of Sancratosia is flying disc, although other sports such as football, cricket, and various forms of hockey (including floor, roller in-line, and ice hockey) also enjoy popularity. The Sancratosian Sports and Games Confederation oversees local leagues, tournaments, and national teams.

Sancratosia participates in the Micronational Olympic Federation and is represented by its Micronational Olympic Committee. Additionally, the Principality engages in intermicronational fantasy leagues, with teams like AF Sancratosia representing the nation in competitions such as the MicroNations League Trophy.

Cuisine

Main article: Cuisine of Sancratosia

A typical Goose Day meal.

Sancratosian cuisine is a fusion cuisine consisting mostly of Québécois, French and American culinary traditions. Staple dishes include poutine, soupe aux pois, pizza-ghetti, and sucre à la crème, the official dessert of the Principality. Maple syrup features prominently in Sancratosian cuisine, particularly on dishes like crêpes.

Traditional meals are tied to national and public holidays, such as Goose Day, celebrated with dishes featuring small birds like foie gras or duck. Seasonal variations in cuisine are also observed, with richer meals enjoyed during the winter months.

The most popular beverages in Sancratosia are coffee and tea, reflecting their relative popularity among the population.

Chez Chloé, a gastropub, holds the distinction of being the first registered company in Sancratosia, underscoring the significance of cuisine within the Principality.

Museums

Main article: Museums in Sancratosia

A display at the Nadia Comaneci Princely Museum.

Sancratosia boasts a network of public national museums administered by the National Museums of Sancratosia. Additionally, the Principality hosts several private museums dedicated to collections owned by the House of Sancratosia.

The Duchess Jana I National Museum and Archives houses artifacts related to Sancratosian history and the broader micronational community, including notable items like a 1994 Sealand Half-Dollar. It also safeguards the Crown Jewels and a signed copy of the Constitution.

The Duchess Maria II National Museum of Visual Arts features exhibitions showcasing visual art from Sancratosians and other micronationalists.

The Sancratosian Princely Museums Network coordinates private museums showcasing collections curated by the Sovereign Princess of Sancratosia. These include exhibits on the history of Canadian Airlines, the 1976 Summer Olympic Games in Montréal, the typewriter production by Brother Industries, the DeLorean Motor Company, and the art of worldbuilding.

See also

• Outline of Sancratosia

External links

• Official website of the Principality of Sancratosia