The City of Melbourne has many fascinating lanes and shopping arcades, but there’s one iconic walkway that rises high above the rest, it’s the heritage shopping gallery known as The Block Arcade.
Opening in 1892 this L shaped arcade was inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan. Natural light was to be a major charactistic of the design that features an iron and glass canopy.
There are four entrances to the arcade with interior spaces elaborately decorated. Wrought iron, carved stone and beautiful mosaic tiled flooring, together with elaborate ceilings and stylish light fittings, create an environment of timeless elegance.
The heritage shopping area boasts 29 retailers of eclectic mix, plus 4 floors above occupied by commercial interests.
The highly popular The Hopetoun Tea Rooms opened with the Arcade and this year shares its 125 anniversary.
A big draw card, is the wholly owned Australian iconic Haigh’s chocolate store. This is THE place to be leading up to Easter.
Of course, it wouldn’t be an Arcade without an iconic clock. The little trumpeters call out the hour adding to the Arcade’s old world charm.
Not to be missed are the ceiling murals in the Crabtree & Evelyn store at the entrance off Collins Street.
Melbourne has many exciting shopping complexes, malls and laneways, but nothing compares to the timeless elegance and grace of The Block Arcade.
125th Anniversary congratulations.