Volubilis
Fès-Meknès
Volubilis is a partly excavated ancient city located near Meknes in Morocco, known as a significant Berber-Roman settlement and possibly the capital of the Kingdom of Mauretania during the reign of King Juba II. Established initially as a Berber and proto-Carthaginian settlement from the 3rd century BC, it flourished under Roman rule from the 1st century AD, expanding to cover around 42 hectares with a 2.6 km circuit of walls. The city featured important public buildings such as a basilica, temple, and triumphal arch, reflecting Roman architectural influence. Volubilis thrived economically thanks to olive cultivation, which funded the construction of elegant townhouses adorned with large mosaic floors. After falling to local tribes around 285 AD, it remained inhabited for several centuries, transitioning from a Latinised Christian community to an early Islamic settlement and later becoming the seat of Idris ibn Abdallah, founder of the Idrisid dynasty. Although abandoned by the 11th century following the relocation of power to Fes, the ruins remained largely intact until an 18th-century earthquake and subsequent stone looting. Excavations during French rule revealed exquisite mosaics and restored key buildings, leading to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as an exceptional example of a Roman colonial town at the Empire's edge.
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Tip: The best time to visit Volubilis is during the cooler months in spring or autumn to avoid the intense Moroccan summer heat. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Guided tours are available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site's historical context. Visitors can benefit from reduced admission fees with valid student or senior identification. Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to uneven terrain and extensive ruins.
Interesting facts
- •Volubilis covers approximately 42 hectares and was surrounded by walls 2.6 km long.
- •The city contains some of the finest Roman mosaics in North Africa, many depicting mythological scenes.
- •Volubilis was never retaken by Rome after falling to local tribes around 285 AD due to its remote location.
- •The site was used as a source of building materials for Meknes after an 18th-century earthquake damaged many structures.
- •The name Volubilis may derive from the Amazigh word for oleander, a plant common in the valley.
- •Local inhabitants still refer to the ruins as "Qasr Fara'on" or "The Palace," reflecting its grandeur.
History
Volubilis originated as a Berber settlement in the 3rd century BC and later came under proto-Carthaginian influence.
It became part of the Mauretanian kingdom and flourished under Roman rule from the 1st century AD, with King Juba II developing it as a capital.
The city prospered until it fell to local tribes around 285 AD and was never retaken by Rome.
It continued as a Latin Christian and early Islamic settlement, becoming the seat of the Idrisid dynasty in the late 8th century.
By the 11th century, it was abandoned as the political center shifted to Fes.
The site was rediscovered in the 19th century and partially excavated during French colonial times.
Place Guide
Triumphal Arch2nd century AD
A monumental Roman arch built in the 2nd century AD to honor Emperor Caracalla, marking the city's prosperity and Roman architectural influence.
Basilica2nd century AD
The public basilica was a key administrative and judicial building in Volubilis, reflecting Roman civic architecture and urban planning.
Roman Houses with Mosaics2nd century AD
Many well-preserved townhouses feature intricate mosaic floors depicting mythological and natural themes, showcasing the wealth and artistic tastes of Volubilis' inhabitants.
Temple of Saturn2nd century AD
A Roman temple dedicated to Saturn, serving religious functions and illustrating the integration of Roman religion in Mauretania.
Idrisid Settlement Arealate 8th century
Ruins reflecting the early Islamic period when Volubilis became the seat of Idris ibn Abdallah, founder of the Idrisid dynasty in Morocco.
Contact
Phone: 05 35 54 41 03
