Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Any trip to Fes should include a day out to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, probably the largest and best-preserved ruins in Morocco. With scenery reminiscent of Russell Crowe’s homecoming in ‘Gladiator’ (more for the surrounding countryside than for the grisly welcome he got), Volubilis is a must-see for history buffs and lovers of picturesque vistas alike. Find out why you should visit in our Volubilis guide…
1. Proximity to Fes
2. Rich History
3. Marvellous Mosaics
4. Columns, Arches and More
5. Nearby Moulay Idriss
The archaeological site is located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Fes, taking an hour and a half to reach by car. It’s a scenic drive which takes you through a hilly countryside populated with farmers working in wheat fields and olive groves. The Roman ruins of Volubilis are also located just 30 minutes north of the city of Meknes, so it’s a wonderful option for a day trip from both cities.
Dating from the second and third centuries AD, Volubilis was one of the Roman Empire's most remote outposts. Covering 103 acres, the site is scattered with evidence of several civilisations over the past ten centuries of occupation, from prehistoric times to the Islamic period. It joins a string of other Roman sites dotted along the North African coast: Carthage (Tunisia), Timgad (Algeria), Leptis Magna (Libya) and Alexandria (Egypt). Nestled in the rolling green hills, the Roman ruins of Volubilis make for an unexpected historic escape from the chaos of Moroccan city life.
One of the most striking features visible at the ruins is the mesmerising mosaics. You’ll find some of these in the Labours of Hercules House, where (surprise, surprise) the 12 Labours of Hercules are depicted in well-preserved mosaics. And while you’ll have to make a trip to Tangier to visit the mosaic of Venus, you can find a couple of intricate mosaics on the path outside the House of Venus, too.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, Roman ruins in Morocco don’t get much more impressive than Volubilis. Entering through the magnificent Triumphal Arch, you’ll be shaded by a large carob tree overhead as you walk past ancient oil presses. Make sure you see the tall, domineering arches of the ruins of the Basilica (you can’t miss them), and look out for the huge Corinthian columns of the Capitoline Temple. We recommend opting for a guided tour of the ruins to get the full experience. Who knows what you’ll learn?
A visit to the Roman ruins of Volubilis wouldn’t be complete without stopping in at the holy town of Moulay Idriss. Famous for being the site of the tomb of Idris I, the first major Islamic ruler of Morocco, the town is located just two-and-a-half miles away from Volubilis (a mere ten-minute drive). Moulay Idriss is a must-visit pilgrimage centre offering scenic hilltop views and delicious food. Stop for lunch on your way to or from the ruins to enjoy the higgledy-piggledy medina and people-watching in the market square.
As regular visitors to Morocco, we know our riads from our kasbahs and our tagines from our hariras. Whether travelling as a family or a couple, our consultants know the best accommodation options for you and can plan everything from intimate picnics in the Agafay Desert to authentic interactions with Berber families. Forget about the stress of moving from A to B, as we have first-hand experience with Moroccan rail and roads and can tailor your itinerary around their nuances. Our in-country Concierges even have restaurant recommendations galore; their advice is just a WhatsApp away.
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