These incredible ruins are partially excavated, revealing beautiful mosaics. It’s easy to see why the site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
History lovers, those curious about archaeology and ancient cultures, or anyone wanting to have a complete experience when visiting Morocco should aim to include this location in the itinerary.
When to visit Volubilis for the best experience
The best time to visit is in spring when wildflowers and greenery surround the excavation site, adding natural beauty to the ruins and ancient stone monuments.
No matter the season, be sure to bring along a hat and sunglasses, and of course, plenty of water (ideally a refillable bottle).
Ancient Volubilis: history and rulers
The Roman city of Volubilis was built in the 1st century AD at the site that is believed to have been the Mauritanian capital from the 3rd century BC. The Roman stronghold here was not to last, and Volubilis was back under the control of local North African peoples by the end of the 3rd century AD.
So what made this area so desirable to Roman conquerors, and why did the Berber people persist until they won it back?
Volubilis is set in a fertile agricultural region, not unlike southern Europe. The land was covered by the Romans and local tribes for the rich earth and abundant supplies that could be grown and exported or sold. Clearing of land would contribute to the desertification of the region seen today.
Volubilis’ long history of settlement
Volubilis became a city in the third century BC during the Berber Kingdom of Mauretania (Maghreb), but relics have been found dating back to the Neolithic period.
Juba II, King of Mauretania around AD 23, spoke Latin and Greek, encouraged arts and science, published a treatise on Roman archaeology and married Cleopatra Selene, daughter of Cleopatra of Egypt and Mark Antony. The mansions of Volubilis unearthed today display the rich mosaics depicting themes from Greek mythology created during his rule.
Arch of Caracalla, Volubilis, Morocco by Dennis Bunnik
On Juba II’s passing Mauretania was formally annexed by Rome, becoming a source of olives and wheat for the Roman economy. Evidence of the olive industry remains today, with olive presses a common industrial artefact found in ruins. Exotic animals from the region were exported for the Roman arena, leading to the extinction of the Atlas bear and Barbary lion.
Buildings and monuments of Volubilis
Architecture of Volubilis, Morocco by Piere Rocheouste
The archaeological site spans around 42 hectares, and the ruins are partially excavated to reveal incredibly well-preserved homes and laneways that make up the once-established Roman metropolis.
We highly recommend exploring the site with a guide for a richer experience. There are few information boards at the site and many fascinating details a casual observer may miss. Here are some of the highlights:
The Arch of Caracalla and Main Street
This marble triumphal arch was built in 217 AD to honour Emperor Caracalla and his mother, Julia Domna. It spanned one end of the main street known as ‘Decumanus’, lined with broad paths and around 200 shops. The arch once held up a bronze chariot.
An aqueduct carried water through the city via an underground channel running parallel to the main street.
Houses with mosaics
Preserved mosaics, Volubilis, Morocco by Dennis Bunnik
The mansions of Volubilis boast well-preserved rooms and decorations that show the luxurious lifestyles of the Latin Berber and Roman citizens at the height of Volubilis’ wealth.
House of Orpheus
This is the largest home, boasting a mosaic of Orpheus charming animals by playing the lute and a dolphin mosaic in the dining room. There’s even a private hammam with visible pipes supplying a hot room, warm room, cold room, plus a solarium.
Ten more houses with mosaics
Continuing along Decumanus, the main street, it’s evident that these ruins were homes to the wealthy. The mosaics feature a variety of Greek and Roman designs — these are just some of the wonders to uncover:
- House of Acrobat: an athlete is presented with a trophy for a competition where the rider dismounted the horse and re-mounted it during the race.
- House of the Dog: once a brothel where warriors would stop, it features a carved rock plinth.
- House of Ephebus: Bacchus stands in a chariot drawn by panthers.
- House of the Columns: stone columns form a circle around the interior court, with various styles including spirals.
- House of the Knight: the mosaic features Bacchus and Ariadne.
- House of Venus: once the home of King Juba II, two mosaics here depict the Abduction of Hylas by the Nymphs, where Hercules lover Hylas is lured from duty by two beautiful nymphs, and Diana Bathing, where the virgin goddess is glimpsed in her bath by hunter Acteon, whom she turned into a stag as punishment, to be chased and devoured by his own pack of hounds.
Volubilis returns to Berber control
Despite the 2.6km defensive wall built by Marcus Aurelius to defend Volubilis, it eventually slipped from Roman control in 285 AD. The city remained an urban centre. After 788 AD, Volubilis briefly became the capital of the Muslim dynasty of the Idrisids.
However, the ecological damage to this once fertile region meant that by 1100 AD the city was abandoned, and over time would be pillaged for riches like marble and stone.
Travel to Volubilis with a small group tour on a spacious, air-conditioned coach
Volubilis is one lost city of the ancient world that is uniquely found in Northern Africa, a fascinating look at Berber culture and connection as well as Roman rule during the height of the empire’s power.
As more of the site is excavated, it’s almost bound to reveal a depth of hidden treasure that provides insights into the lives of North African people many centuries ago.
Discover the sophistication and culture of this lost and rediscovered city on a trip to Morocco, and share the journey with like-minded travellers and expert guides. We can’t wait to share it with you!
Questions about Volubilis, Morocco
Is Volubilis, Morocco worth visiting?
The Roman ruins of Volubilis in Morocco are very interesting and absolutely worth visiting. The preserved ruins of the Roman city of Volubilis date back to the 1st Century AD and demonstrate the extensive reach of the Roman Empire.
What is Volubilis famous for?
The archaeological site of Volubilis is famous for its rich history, significant art and mosaics and the influence of many sequential and interconnected rulers. It contains Berber, Roman, Greek and Muslim relics.
How long should a visit to Volubilis take?
Allow a full morning to travel from Fez to Volubilis, see the ancient site and join a guided tour with an expert guide. Plan to spend at least two hours at the site.