The History of Volubilis
Volubilis is an ancient Roman city located in present-day Morocco, considered a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997. The city was founded in the 3rd century B.C. by the Berber people under the name of Oulili, and then occupied by the Romans in the 1st century A.D. During the second half of the 2nd century, it became the capital of the province of Mauritania Tingitana and reached its peak during the 3rd century. The city was abandoned in the 11th century, after the arrival of Islam in the region.
Today, the visitors of Volubilis can see the remains of the ancient city, including mosaics, basilicas, triumphal arches, houses, and the ancient Roman baths.
Exploring the Remains of Volubilis
Visiting the ancient ruins of Volubilis is like taking a journey back in time and experiencing a piece of Roman history. The remains of the city are situated on a hill overlooking the fertile plains of the region, creating a picturesque landscape that makes the visit even more enjoyable.
Once inside the city, the visitors can start their tour by visiting the Triumphal Arch, built to honor the Roman emperor Caracalla in the early 3rd century. The arch is decorated with reliefs representing the Roman military victories in the region.
The next stop is the Capitol, the main square of the city, surrounded by the ruins of the Basilica, where the administration of the city was located, and the Temple of Jupiter, the most important god of the Roman pantheon. The temple had a rectangular shape with columns and was decorated with statues of the gods and goddesses.
One of the most impressive parts of Volubilis is the House of Orpheus, named after the famous Greek mythological hero and musician. The house is decorated with beautiful mosaics depicting Orpheus playing the lyre and other scenes from the ancient Greek mythology.
The visit to Volubilis wouldn’t be complete without exploring the ancient Roman baths. The baths were the central place for relaxation and socialization in Roman times, and their remains in Volubilis are still in excellent condition.
How to Plan Your Visit to Volubilis?
If you’re planning to visit Volubilis, there are some important things to consider to make your experience even better: If you want to know more about the subject covered in this article, 4 days desert tour from Marrakech, where you’ll uncover extra information and fascinating insights on the subject.
Conclusion
Visiting Volubilis is an unforgettable experience that takes you on a journey through the Roman times and offers you the opportunity to explore the remains of an ancient city that once played an important role in the history of North Africa. With its beautiful mosaics, impressive arches, and ancient baths, Volubilis is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology or ancient history.
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