Block Arcade

Overview

The Block Arcade is one of Melbourne's most beautiful heritage shopping arcades, built in 1892 and inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. Its ornate interior is a jewel of Victorian-era commercial architecture.

Highlights

• Mosaic Floor: An exquisite Italian mosaic floor by craftsmen imported from Venice, featuring intricate geometric patterns preserved from the original 1892 installation.
• Hopetoun Tea Rooms: Melbourne's oldest tearoom, operating continuously since 1892, famous for its cabinet cakes displayed in a glass vitrine.
• Heritage Architecture: Ornate plasterwork, glass canopy ceiling, and carved timber shopfronts create a museum-quality Victorian setting.

History

Designed by David C. Askew and completed in 1893, the arcade was built during Melbourne's 1880s land boom. "Doing the Block" — promenading along the arcade — was a fashionable pastime for Melbourne's elite. Carefully restored in the 1980s.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Tea: Queue early for Hopetoun Tea Rooms — they don't take reservations and lines form quickly.
• Combine With: Royal Arcade is a 2-minute walk away; explore both for the full arcade experience.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.