Volubilis - Roman Ruins in Morocco
Site of Ancient Roman City is a Major Moroccan Tourist Attraction
Jun 12, 2008
Morocco has one of the richest histories and cultures of any country in the world, influenced by centuries of diverse rulers. Among those rulers were the Romans, who spread their empire into Africa.
Roman Africa in Morocco
Evidence of Roman Africa is tucked away in the foothills of the Rif Mountains. There, tourists can step back in time amid the two-thousand-year-old ruins of Volubilis. Once a thriving Roman city, this archaeological site evokes a strong sense of the days when the Roman Empire had control over this part of Africa.
Short History
In the first century A.D., the Romans built Volubilis at the site of a Carthaginian city which dates back to the third century B.C. It became an important Roman town in North Africa.
The population of Volubilis is estimated to have been 20,000. Although the Romans had lost control of the area by the 3rd century, they did not immediately abandon the city. Their Latin influence was evident for several hundred more years, up until the Arabs gained control of the region in the 7th century.
Volubilis remained an active and inhabited city until the 18th century. Although its historical structures suffered damage in an earthquake in the 1700s and some of its marble was taken for construction in Meknes, Volubilis is the best preserved Roman ruins in all of Morocco.
Location and Economy
Volubilis’ location at the base of the Rif Mountains was both strategic and scenic. It was at the Western edge of Roman African, and the city’s position – now overlooking the nearby town of Moulay Idriss – allowed full view of the surrounding countryside.
The low mountainous region was ideal for growing olives and grains. Export of the region’s olive oil and wheat to Rome were central to Roman Africa’s economy. Some oil presses can still be seen in the ruins.
Columns and Arches
A number of impressive columns and arches are still intact, and can be seen from the distance as the road approaches Volubilis. Closer inspection elicits awe and the feeling of stateliness that must have existed throughout the Roman Empire.
The Triumphal Arch, Basilica, and columns of the Capitol are particularly spectacular to see.
Mosaics
The passage of time has not erased the grandeur of Volubilis, and a number of intricate mosaic floors remain surprisingly well-preserved.
Ancient Roman City Life
A walk throughout the ruins offers a glimpse of daily life in the ancient city. View a bakery with the kneading equipment still in place, olive oil presses used to produce oil for export and the mechanisms of an ancient well. Visit the impressive houses of Dionysis, Euphebus, and Orpheus. Climb the steps of the Capitol and feel dwarfed by the columns.
Other Information
Volubilis is an easy drive from both neighboring Moulay Idriss and the nearby Imperial City of Meknes. It can also be visited in day trips while en route to or from the cities of Fez, Rabat, and Casablanca. Further away is Marrakech, home of the Majorelle Garden and Islamic Art Museum.
A modest admission of 20 dirhams is charged. Bathroom facilities and refreshments are available.
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