The Kingdom of Morocco is situated in the westernmost part of North Africa and is one of the famous places to visit for a holiday trip in this continent. This country was under the rule of the Umayadd Muslims of Damascus, Berber dynasties of Almoravid and Almohad, and European kingdoms of Rome and Germany in the past. Owing to this, this country has undergone many changes in its culture, which is a beautiful fusion of the Arabic, Berber and European influences. Some of the cities that are a hallmark of the Moroccon history are Meknes, Chefchaouen and Fes el Bali. Another place of historical interest is the city of Volubilis, which is one of the most visited sites of this nation. Check the airfare of various international airlines bound to Morocco, before you make plans to visit this spectacular place during your holidays.
Volubilis - Location and History
Volubilis, located in modern day Morocco, is now a partly excavated site of the then Roman town of 40 AD. This site was once the administrative centre and capital of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana and was home to more than 20,000 inhabitants. This place is situated to the west of the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in the Jebel Zerhoun Plain and lies close to the cities of Meknes and Fez. According to archaeological evidences, this site was inhabited by people of the neolithic era in the 3rd century and was conquered by the Romans in about 40 AD.
Famous Things to See
This place has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and boasts of a number of famous attractions. The best preserved structures of this place are a Roman forum, a 2nd century basilica and the Arch of Caracalla, which dates back to 217 AD. Columns of this forum still stand intact and the basilica can be seen with remains of its impressive walls, which are more than 30 feet tall. The most renowned remains of this site are its mosaic floors, which include Diana Bath, Works of Hercules, Orpheus Mosaics and Nereides.
Volubilis literally means Oualili (oleander flowers) in Berber language as the land of this site supports growth of a large number of oleander plants and olive trees. This place is also known by the name of Oualila and Ksar Pharoun (Pharaoh Palace) in Arabic language.
Excavation and Restoration
The site underwent massive destruction following an earthquake in the 4th century. Excavations of this site were initiated by the French from 1912 to 1956. Further restoration was carried out between 1930 and 1967. In 1997, this place was listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
