Excursion Meknes – Volubilis – Moulay Idriss
Meknes was the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco during the reign of Moulay Ismaïl (1672-1727). He built large buildings such as the royal palace Dar-al-Makhzen, the stables that housed 1200 horses, a stud farm, the attic Hri Souani, many mosques, a great wall around the city, monumental doors, a large basin to irrigate beautiful gardens, the huge undergrounded prison named Cara, and the Ambassador’s Hall: Koubat Al Khayatine.
You will discover other interesting monuments: the Madrassa Bou Inania, the museum Dar Jamaï reflecting the upper middle class and the Moroccan arts and the mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl, a rare holy place opens to non-Muslims.
Volubilis, was built on the Berber city Walili, located on the plain of Saïss which is rich in olive trees.
This ancient Roman city is a vast archaeological site of about 42 hectares dating back to the 3rd century BC living mainly from the trade of olive oil.
You can see different presses but also rich houses decorated with wall frescos and beautiful mosaics, the triumphal arch: Arch of Caracalla, the ruins of the basilica, the temple and the thermal baths …
Only half of the site has been cleared but the excavations still continue.
Volubilis, was built on the Berber city Walili, located on the plain of Saïss which is rich in olive trees.
This ancient Roman city is a vast archaeological site of about 42 hectares dating back to the 3rd century BC living mainly from the trade of olive oil.
You can see different presses but also rich houses decorated with wall frescos and beautiful mosaics, the triumphal arch: Arch of Caracalla, the ruins of the basilica, the temple and the thermal baths …
Only half of the site has been cleared but the excavations still continue.
Moulay Idriss hosts to the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, 1st king of Morocco. This holy village was built on the hill of Mount Zehroun and remains a high place of pilgrimage for Moroccans. It’s white house’s leaning against each other and surrounding the tomb of Moulay Idriss offer a picturesque walk. At the top of the village you can admire a panoramic view of the plain as well as the site of Volubilis.
