The Royal Arcade in Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD) is a stunning piece of Victorian-era architecture and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Established in 1870, it is Melbourne’s oldest surviving arcade and offers a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. The arcade is beautifully designed with a high glass roof, intricate details, and mosaic flooring, evoking the charm and elegance of 19th-century shopping precincts.
One of the arcade’s standout features is the pair of giant mythological statues, Gog and Magog, who stand guard over the Gaunt’s clock, striking on the hour. These figures are a point of fascination for visitors, adding a quirky, timeless character to the space. The arcade’s high arches and natural lighting create an inviting atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate.
Shoppers and visitors alike are drawn to its eclectic mix of boutique stores, offering everything from high-end fashion and jewellery to specialty goods like chocolates, teas, and handcrafted gifts It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or window-shopping.
What sets Royal Arcade apart is its seamless blend of history and modern-day commerce. While the building itself is a well-preserved heritage site, the stores inside offer contemporary wares, making it a perfect destination for both tourists and locals. In addition, it connects to other key shopping areas like the Bourke Street Mall and Elizabeth Street, making it a central hub in the city’s retail landscape.
Whether you are interested in Melbourne’s history, architecture, or simply in search of a unique shopping experience, the Royal Arcade is a must-visit. It encapsulates the blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy that makes Melbourne a...
Read moreThe Melbourne VIC Australia is a very big place for business hub and travel. There are so many different places, you can visit across Melbourne VIC in 2 or 3 days. It's Royal Arcade is a historic shopping place in the Central park Melbourne VIC Australia, it has been open in near 1870, it is the oldest area arcade in near Collins Street Melbourne VIC Australia, in this building elegant light-filled interior, and the large carved mythic figures of Got & Manog flanking the southern entry. There are beautiful shops old coffee and clothes. The building is related with Elizabeth Street on the west. The arcade takes its name from the practice of "doing the block": dressing fashionably and promenading the section of Collins Street between Elizabeth and Swanston streets. Along with Melbourne's other historic arcade, the , it is a tourist icon of Melbourne, and part of the in the CBD. The arcade is listed on the vic heritage and by the National Trust, and Melbourne's Golden Mile heritage walk runs...
Read moreThe Royal Arcade has always been one of my favourite arcades in Melbourne. It was also the first arcade in Melbourne. “Its historical significance is profound and underpinned by the fact that, as a significant Victorian era building, it is part of the Victorian Heritage Register. The beauty of the Royal Arcade is it remains largely unchanged today, yet its Renaissance Revival style is in pristine condition.” (quoted from the their website) I find the filtered light and gentle buzz of visitors endearing. The architecture is unique and a fine example of Melbourne 100 years ago. It’s just a shame that there are so many shops available for lease. Clearly Covid has hit the arcade hard. But some of the old timers are still holding in there and keeping their doors open. This arcade holds many memories for me, visiting with my grandma and feeling we were “special” because the shops were “so fancy”. These days I walk the arcade with nostalgia and hope that it’ll return to its...
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