The neural arch is the bony structure that arises from the back of the [[vertebral body]] and encloses the [[spinal cord]]. The vertebral arch is comprised of two [[pedicle]]s, the short stout processes that extend from the sides of the vertebral body and two laminae, the broad flat plates that project from the pedicles and join in a triangle to form a hollow archway (the foramen).

The structures of the vertebral arch protect the spinal nerves that run through the spinal canal.