Vurmond

Sovereign City of Vurmond
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: Et nos unum sumus
Anthem: Glory to Dragon
Capital	None
Official languages	English, Filipino
Demonym(s)	Vurmondian
Government	Unitary absolute monarchy
• Crown Prince	L. S. Mariel
Legislature	None
Establishment	22 February 2000
Population
• Census	5 registered citizens (estimated)
Website Official Website of Vurmond

Vurmond, officially the Sovereign City of Vurmond (Filipino: Malayang Syudad ng Vurmond) and also known as the Imperial House and City of Vurmond, is a self-proclaimed sovereign state, commonly referred to as a micronation by external observers. It was founded by Crown Prince L. S. Mariel in the Philippines on February 22, 2000, considered as one of the oldest existing micronations. Although Vurmond lacks physical territory, it asserts its sovereignty through the active participation of its citizens.

The country is currently a member of the Santo Niño Cooperation Union (SNCU) and was previously affiliated with the Organization of Asian and Oceanic Micronations (OAOM).

Etymology

The name "Vurmond" is associated with the nation’s symbolic identity. The founder explained that the term was inspired by the German word for "Guardian," representing Vurmond’s role as a protector of the world. The state’s protector is symbolized by a griffin, a mythological creature.

History

Vurmond was established on February 22, 2000, in a small town in Eastern Visayas, Philippines, and has maintained its form of government since. It was originally led by L. S. Mariel, who served as the sovereign of the state.

In 2021, Vurmond formally entered the micronational community by establishing a presence on Facebook. Vurmond was initially based in Africa. Later that year, Thoclus P. Kyle assumed the position of monarch. However, due to inactivity, Kyle stepped down on March 16, 2022.

On June 23, 2023, Andriy-Ludwig of Belakray took over the leadership of the country, adopting the title of sovereign of Vurmond. On October 6, 2023, Vurmond was incorporated into the Grand Principality of Belakray, while retaining internal autonomy. However, L. S. Mariel did not recognize this annexation and maintained Vurmond’s status as a neutral, independent state.

Vurmond officially joined the Santo Niño Cooperation Union (SNCU) on October 12, 2024.

Government

The government of Vurmond is led by a sovereign, referred to as the Crown Prince, following the principles outlined in the Constitution of Vurmond, written by L. S. Mariel. In theory, the government is a constitutional monarchy, but in practice, it functions as an absolute monarchy, with executive, legislative, and judicial powers concentrated in the hands of the sovereign.

Culture

Vurmond is a religious state, with Christianity playing a significant role in its cultural identity. The national symbols of the griffin and a newly introduced dragon reflect the nation’s heritage. In recent years, the griffin and dragon were combined into a new, unified symbol to represent Vurmond's evolving identity.

Foreign relations

While the monarchy is neutral on foreign affairs, the government regularly contacts various other micronational governments. As of October 2024, Vurmond has relations with Arlandica, Balzi, Curimae, and Hesminia. The country also recognized all other members of SNCU.