Royal Arcade
335 Bourke St, Melbourne
Built in 1870, the Royal Arcade is not only Melbourne’s most popular arcade but also the oldest in Australia. The Royal Arcade is a marvel to walk through, with checkered tiles and glass ceiling, making it a great photo opportunity.
Like most of the city’s arcades, Royal Arcade is filled with small independent producers – many of which are confectionaries.
At the Little Collins St end, there are two giant carvings of the mythical figures, Gog & Magog: biblical figures that were said to be allies of Satan. They stand flanking a large clock that was designed by Thomas Gaunt, once ‘the only watchmaker of the Australian colony.’
Visit on the hour and you’ll see them both ring the bell.