Volubilis

The largest and best preserved Roman ruins in Morocco lie about 33km from Meknes, in the Middle Atlas region. Although archaeologists have revealed the site was originally settled by Carthaginian traders in third century B.C., Volubilis dates predominantly from the second and third centuries A.D. The site was one of the Roman Empires’ most remote posts in the area. Volubilis’ population consisted of Berbers, Greeks, Jews and Syrians and was inhabited until the 18th century. It’s most impressive monuments are it’s triumphal arc, it’s Roman baths and the basilica – all built in the second and third centuries A.D. Its breathtaking mosaics have all been left in place and they are, without doubt, one of the highlights of the site.

The best times to visit the site are early in the morning or later in the afternoon, as midday sun and heat can be overwhelming. Volubilis is open daily and entry into the ruins is about Dr20. There is only one hotel in the area, Hotel Volubilis, and it lies roughly 500m from the site on the ride in from Meknes (Ph: 544405). In addition to the hotel, there are camping grounds about 9km from the ruins. Camping Zerhoune (Ph: 517756) costs about Dr15 per person, with tents costing Dr7. Caravans or camping vans are charged Dr20.