Andor, the live-action Star Wars prequel series from the creative mind of Tony Gilroy and featuring Diego Luna, recently wrapped up its second and final season. This captivating series explores the years leading up to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, earning accolades from both fans and critics for its rich storytelling, powerful performances, and stunning visual designs.
The second season spotlights our protagonist, a former thief turned rebel fighter, as he navigates life on the run. Cassian Andor works as a covert operative for the elusive spymaster Luthen Rael, played by Stellan Skarsgård, setting the stage for the formation of the Rebel Alliance hinted at in the original Star Wars films. The series takes us to breathtaking locales—from the golden wheat fields of Mina-Rau to the bustling elegance of Ghorman Plaza, and the vast ecumenopolis of Coruscant—each space feeling both authentic and visually striking.
In Andor season two, Coruscant becomes particularly significant. First introduced in a 1997 scene added to Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, the capital of the Galactic Republic (and later the Empire) bears a resemblance to its portrayal in the prequel trilogy—an amalgamation of dazzling skyscrapers and Brutalist architecture, where hovercraft zip through the air like shimmering silver threads. However, this version offers a more tangible and grounded feel than ever before.
Andor has drawn inspiration for its depiction of Coruscant from notable real-world architectural wonders, especially the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, Spain. Production designer Luke Hull shared, “In the middle of season one, I identified architectural styles that fit Coruscant like those of Santiago Calatrava and Zaha Hadid.” He embarked on a location scouting trip across various cities, including Paris and Barcelona, looking for buildings that embodied the essence of Star Wars.
This architectural marvel spans an impressive 350,000 square meters and is comprised of various structures that were built along the dry riverbed of the old Turia River, which was diverted after a devastating flood in 1957. The complex broke ground in 1991, launching with the Hemesferic, Spain’s largest cinema and planetarium, in 1998, then being expanded over the years with the most recent addition, Agora Plaza, completed in 2009.
According to ILM visual effects supervisor Mohen Leon, “At this location in Valencia, every corner looks like Coruscant.” The location not only grounded the scenes aesthetically but also enhanced the narrative’s realism, giving the impression of upscale government offices.
If you’re a fan of Andor, you’ll remember the Prince Felipe Science Museum as an essential part of the plaza near the Imperial Senate Building. In season two’s ninth episode, Cassian Andor attempts to rescue Senator Mon Mothma, where this striking architecture plays a key role.
But the City of Arts and Sciences also inspired other settings in the series. Locations like Davo Sculdun’s lavish skyscraper in episode six and the meeting point for Luthen Rael and his ISB mole Lonni Jung draw upon the Queen Sofia Palace of the Arts and the adjacent Montolivet Bridge.
Hull explained, “We planned to utilize only part of the plaza for the Senate. Since we were placing the Senate offices where we shot for Davo Sculdun’s building, the original structure was up for grabs.” He envisioned the Queen Sofia Palace’s front area as a classy landing pad, allowing for a picturesque view of Coruscant while characters arrive in limousines.
The immersive experience extends to the costume design in the Senate as well. Michael Wilkinson, the series’ costume designer, collaborated with Hull to create garments that add depth and reality. “Coruscant is a melting pot of cultures, and audiences swiftly need to recognize different characters and their roles,” he shared. This required an array of costumes, from high-ranking senators to everyday staff, each distinctly representing their unique positions.
It’s not just Andor that showcases this stunning coastal creation; the City of Arts and Sciences has made appearances in several sci-fi shows. Its remarkable structures lent their aesthetic to Westworld and Doctor Who, as well as in Brad Bird’s Tomorrowland.
Why does the City of Arts and Sciences resonate with filmmakers? Hull explains that its scale and coherent design evoke the essence of science fiction, making it an attractive backdrop for narratives set in the future. “Calatrava’s designs look inherently futuristic, drawing storytellers and directors to use them in their projects,” he noted.
Interestingly, a gathering of Spanish Star Wars fans celebrated May the Fourth in 2005 at this very location, just days before the debut of Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith. Seeing Calatrava’s masterpiece finally appear in Andor feels like an homage to the force connecting fans with their beloved galaxy.
Isn’t it fascinating how architecture and storytelling intersect? The City of Arts and Sciences offers a captivating vista that enhances the narrative depth of shows like Andor. If you’re curious to explore more about the intricate connection between architecture and storytelling in media, take a look at more content on this topic at Moyens I/O.