Saturn Valley

Saturn Valley is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Connoor River in the city of Oranjestad. Shire historian and activist Theodore Gavin was a major proponent of preservation of the Saturn Valley area, and visited it on numerous occasions to hunt and enjoy the scenery.

Nearly two billion years of Shire’s geological history have been exposed as the Connoor River and its tributaries cut their channels through layer after layer of rock. While the specific geologic processes and timing that formed the Saturn Valley are the subject of debate by geologists, recent evidence suggests that the Connoor River established its course through the canyon at least 17 million years ago. Since that time, the Connoor River continued to erode and form the canyon to its present-day configuration.

History

Native Shirelings

The Ancient Mr. Saturn were a native Shai culture that once existed in the Transfagarasan/Shai-Ling region some 3000 years ago. The Mr. Saturn were the first people known to live in the Saturn Valley area.

Archaeologists still debate when this distinct culture emerged. The current consensus suggests their emergence around 1200 BCE during the Wood-Punching era. Rumors persist of a small clan of Mr. Saturn still living on the northern rim of the valley...

Arrival and settlement by modern Shirelings

In 1840, Theodore Gavin built the now famous cabins that overlook Saturn Valley from the north. His book, “The Echoes of the Ancients”, written about the valley, is credited with saving the valley from the rapid development that was currently being experienced in nearby Oranjestad.

In 1908, Saturn Valley became an official part of Oranjestad, and in 1911 was declared a protected zone, restricting development to civic-approved projects only.

Buildings & Infrastructure

Though the area is protected, some structures do exist, including the following:

• The Gavin Cabins were built during the 1840s by Theodore Gavin. He built the cabins for the abundance of natural beauty that could be seen clearly from them. These cabins are the longest continually standing structures in the area. It is currently used as a guest house; booking is required well in advance.

• Saturn Plaza Hotel is a recently completed hotel on the west side of the valley. It was originally constructed in 1922 but was never finished due to a lack of funding. It was finally finished in 2015 after a new round of private funding.

• Watermelon In Easter Hay Bridge, Conference of the Birds Rd, and Saturn Valley Roads criss-cross the valley, linking the area to the surrounding neighborhoods.

• Saturn Valley Arcology Complex, while legally a part of the Lusus neighborhood, has its main tower jutting up through valley.

• The Connoor Canal runs along the western edge of the canyon. The Connoor River was diverted from the canyon down the canals in 1887. An erosion barrier was completed the same year, keeping the canal from flooding the valley below.

List of Structures

1. Saturn Valley Plaza Hotel - This hotel offers guests a unique experience with a front-row seat to the impressive cliff faces that surrounds it.

2. Gavin Cabins - Dating back to the time before the city of Oranjestad, Gavin Cabins stand as a testament to the area's rich history. A popular tourist destination, these cabins are often booked years in advance.

3. The Hemp Collective - Among the oldest businesses in the metropolitan area, The Hemp Collective predates the city itself. Offering fine cannabis products.

4. Camp Nazareth - Located between Saturn Valley and Shai-Ling, Camp Nazareth is a small campsite that has become a favored spot among tourists.

5. House of the Infinite Amethyst - A unique lounge known for its distinctive ambiance and artistic charm.

6. Marillion Hall - A central hub for community activities and gatherings, Marillion Hall serves as the neighborhood's community center.

7. It's Your Place, We Just Furnish It - This home decor business, situated on the first floor of the Cypher Building, provides residents with a variety of furnishings and decorations.

8. Cypher Building Apartments - The Cypher Building houses two apartments on its second and third floors, offering modern living spaces to its occupants.

9. Othmar Apartments - A 10-story tall apartment complex with nine units, Othmar Apartments provide residents with comfortable and contemporary living spaces.

10. Boys Club - A social club that welcomes both men and women, the Boys Club is a popular spot for socializing and entertainment.

11. Santenello Apartments - Featuring three units, Santenello Apartments provide residents with cozy and stylish living spaces.

12. Knight Residence - Positioned across from Santenello Apartments. Private.

13. Potion Seller - A mysterious and intriguing establishment known for its unique potions and elixirs.

14. Galactic Gameshop - A haven for board game and comic enthusiasts, Galactic Gameshop is a specialty store offering a wide selection of entertainment.

15. Wye Oak Condominiums - A 12-story condominium complex with ten units, Wye Oak Condominiums provide residents with a blend of comfort and luxury.

16. Bishop Bullwinkle's First Church Of Nothing But The Truth - A spiritual center that serves as a place of worship and community for the residents of Saturn Valley.

17. Karl Havoc's Havocburger - A popular restaurant founded by Karl Havoc, offering a diverse menu of delectable burgers.

18. The Dubois - Diplomat housing with three units, The Dubois provides elegant living spaces for those in diplomatic service.

19. Watkins IT Consulting - A thriving business providing consulting services in the field of information technology.

20. The Dunsing - A private residence with a unique character.

21. Aroma - Petran Cuisine - A restaurant specializing in Petran cuisine, Aroma offers a unique culinary experience for residents and visitors alike.

22. The Rafferty Retreat - A spa and massage center, The Rafferty Retreat provides a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation within Saturn Valley.

Behind the Scenes

The area is named for Saturn Valley from the SNES game EarthBound.

It was largely vacant flatland prior to its creation. Nebbers sculpted the canyon and archway with Voxel and Worldedit.