Volubilis | Ray and Shelley's Retirement Adventures

We went to see and explore the Roman ruins at Volubilis in Morocco. This site was excavated by the French during their rule over French Morocco between 1912 and 1955. Apparently the French army undertook scientific explorations as early as the 1830s and by the 1850s it was fashionable for French army officers to investigate Roman remains during their leave and spare time. By the late 19th century French archaeologists were undertaking an effort to uncover Volubilis through excavations and restorations of this archaeological site.

Built in a fertile agricultural area, Volubilis was developed from the 1st century BC onward as a Berber, then proto-Carthaginian, settlement before being the capital of the kingdom of Mauretania. It grew rapidly under Roman rule from the 1st century AD onward and expanded to cover about 42 hectares (100 acres) with a 2.6 km (1.6 mi) circuit of walls.

There were lots of areas of Volubilis that remained fairly well preserved. We were able to walk freely throughout the ruins and explore the site. We came to some ruins that still had the original floor mosaic tiles in place. The details and design were ornate and beautiful

Mosaic floor of Volubilis in Morocco known as the Mosaic of the Labours of Hercules.

The details of the mosaic floors were quite unique with designs and images of people and animals. We continued exploring the ruins and came to some large pieces that were still standing after all these centuries.

Shelley in the Volubilis ruins in Morocco

Ray stopped to take a rest and enjoyed a seat on one of the 1st century pillar bases in Volubilis.

This arch of Caracalla which stood somewhat by itself in the ruins was quite impressive. It was built in honour of the emperor Caracalla.

We walked through the ruins and imagined the history and lives that lived here over the centuries. There was a main road system that ran the entire length of Volubilis.

In the centre of the Road were flat stones that covered a ditch which was used for water and sewer run off. It was quite advanced for the times and overall the site was very impressive.