Galleria Umberto, Naples, Italy

Update: This building bears a striking resemblance to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

One of the most grandiose shopping malls in the world, the Galleria Umberto, built in the shadow of the Castel Nuovo and the port of Naples, dates to the late 19th Century.

Open to the elements, but still featuring a glass roof, it shows the influence of classical design and the Crystal Palace, built in London earlier in the 19th Century.

Interestingly, there aren’t a huge number of stores, and most of them are very expensive.

The dome is magnificent, and is the centerpiece of the complex. You won’t find any parking lots at this shopping mall, as it’s built right up to the street and surrounded on all sides by other buildings across the street.

One Comment Add yours

  1. Anonymous says:

    Wot – no Sunglass Hut or Verizon booths?But – it IS amazing! Thanks!

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