This magnificent glass-roofed arcade is the Galleria Umberto I, named after the King of Italy at the time of its construction. If you’ve been to Milan, it might remind you of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II—and you’d be right. The architect took clear inspiration from it. Built under sweeping iron-and-glass domes, the Galleria marked a new era of prosperity and urban renewal for Naples. It was part of a citywide sanitation plan, creating a bright, open space where hotels and shops could thrive. Before that, this neighborhood had a rough reputation—poorly lit alleys and high crime made it somewhere to avoid. When the Galleria opened, with its soaring vaults and refined details, it transformed the area overnight. It became a favorite meeting place for Neapolitans, blending luxury boutiques, elegant cafés, and a bustling business hub. With entrances to Via Toledo and the San Carlo Theatre, it quickly became the go-to rendezvous spot for the city’s upper class. After a period of decline, it’s once again a vibrant part of daily life in Naples. Together with the nearby Galleria Principe, it’s a jewel of the city’s architectural heritage—and well worth a visit.