The ancient city of Volubilis – an archaeological site frozen in time (13 photos + 2 videos)

The city of Volubilis, located in northern Morocco near the modern city of Meknes, is one of the most important archaeological sites in North Africa.





This ancient city, founded more than two millennia ago, serves as a bridge between different cultures and eras - from the Berber heritage to the Roman grandeur and subsequent Byzantine influence.

History of the city



View of the city

Volubilis was founded in prehistoric times as a settlement of Berber tribes. However, its heyday came during the period of Roman rule (1st century BC – 3rd century AD), when it became an important administrative and economic center of the region. The city was part of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana and prospered due to the fertile lands surrounding it and its strategic location on trade routes.





Volubilis was famous for its olive oil production, as evidenced by the numerous surviving oil presses and amphorae found in the area. After the decline of the Roman Empire, the city continued to exist under Byzantine rule, but gradually fell into decline by the 8th century, when the region was conquered by Arab troops.

Architectural wonders of Volubilis



Decumanus Maximus – the main street

Today Volubilis is a huge archaeological complex that amazes with its preservation and grandeur. The main attractions include the following objects:

The Arch of Caracalla. Built in honor of the emperor Caracalla, this arch is decorated with exquisite bas-reliefs and symbolizes the power of the Roman Empire.

Ruins of forums and temples. The central square of the city was the place of public life, where temples, shops and administrative buildings were located.

Mosaics. One of the main treasures of Volubilis are its mosaics, some of the best preserved in the world. They depict scenes from mythology, everyday life and nature. For example, the famous mosaic depicting Dionysus and African animals is considered a masterpiece of Roman art.

Remains of residential buildings. The city’s territory contains the foundations of wealthy Roman houses, demonstrating the level of comfort and luxury of their inhabitants.

Capitol and Basilica. These buildings served as the center of the city’s political and judicial power.

Olive presses. The surviving oil presses are a reminder of Volubilis’s key role in olive oil production.

UNESCO Recognition



Arch of Caracalla

In 1997, Volubilis was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its unique historical and cultural value. This site is a shining example of how different cultures and civilizations have left their mark on one piece of land.



Fragment of a mosaic floor

For contemporaries, Volubilis is not just an archaeological site, but a window into the past. Walking among the ruins, one can imagine the life of an ancient city: the noise of markets, ceremonial processions, the daily concerns of its inhabitants.



This place is also important for understanding the history of North Africa and the interaction of different cultures at this crossroads of civilizations. A visit to the city is especially recommended at sunset, when the last rays of the sun illuminate the ancient stones, creating an almost magical atmosphere.





A swimming pool in one of the houses



Stone ruins of the Capitoline temple