The Roman Ruins of Volubilis, named after the ipomoea volubilis (morning glory) flower, are a captivating historical site located near Meknes, Morocco. These ancient ruins tell the story of a city that saw significant growth and transformation under Roman rule. The area was first inhabited around the third or fourth century BC by Berbers and Phoenicians.
History of Volubilis
Around the first century, Volubilis expanded rapidly under Roman control, covering approximately 100 acres. Positioned at the southwestern edge of the Roman empire, the city was challenging to defend and eventually fell to local tribes. Before the arrival of Islam, Volubilis was a Christian city and later became the seat of government for Idris Ibn Abdallah, the founder of Morocco.
Volubilis was abandoned by the eleventh century but remained largely intact until an earthquake in the eighteenth century destroyed much of the city. The ruins were scavenged to build the nearby city of Meknes. Despite this, the site still offers a wealth of historical insights. The massive area has only been partially excavated, but portions of the ruins have been reconstructed to provide visitors with a glimpse of the original layout. While not as intact as some other Roman ruins, Volubilis still allows visitors to visualize the ancient city’s basic structure.
The city was built on a high vantage point, providing stunning views of the surrounding low-lying natural areas. The ruins are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which helps ensure their preservation for future generations. Despite this designation, many of the site’s mosaics remain unprotected from the elements. However, the United States funded a project in 2023 to protect some of the ancient tile work. The mosaics are remarkably well-preserved, with some having been reconstructed for visitors.
Exploring the Ruins of Volubilis
Walking through the ruins, visitors can explore various buildings and structures that have been preserved or reconstructed. These efforts aim to give insight into the city’s layout and the cultural aspects of the Roman era. The mosaics depict various scenes, offering glimpses into the games and religious observances of the time. Notable features of the site include a rebuilt press, a pool, an aqueduct, and other unique structures. The site’s extensive history and cultural significance make it a fascinating place to explore.
Near the entrance to the ruins, several exhibits showcase columns, capitals, and other artifacts recovered from the site. There is also a small museum with models of the olive press found in the ruins, as well as small lanterns and sculptures. While the museum does not have an extensive collection, it is worth a visit for its informative and interesting exhibits.
Admission and Hours
Entrance to the ruins is through a gate dating back to the second century. The admission fee is 70 dirhams, roughly nineteen US dollars, making it an affordable destination. The site is open from 8:30 am until an hour before sunset.
Final Thoughts on My Visit to Volubilis
For history enthusiasts, a trip to Volubilis is a must. Despite being off the beaten path, it is well worth the detour. Located nearly midway between Rabat and Fez, the site requires a significant drive off the main route, but the journey is undeniably worthwhile. Volubilis is one of Morocco’s hidden treasures, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s rich historical tapestry.
The Roman Ruins of Volubilis offer an extraordinary journey through time, showcasing the city’s transformation under Roman rule, its Christian and Muslim heritage, and its role in the foundation of Morocco. The site’s historical significance, combined with its stunning mosaics and well-preserved structures, make it an essential destination for any history buff or cultural enthusiast visiting Morocco.
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