UNESCO-listed Volubilis was key outpost of Roman Empire
07.10.2017
Settlement was on southern edge of Roman Empire
Incredible that society had such talented artisans and wasn't focused on just surviving
Reminded that in many places not much has changed here in centuries
Triumphal Arch built 217AD with lengthy dedication to Caesar
Walls went 1.6 miles around city and averaged 5.2 feet thick; there were 34 towers and 6 main gates
Morocco was SW extreme of Roman Empire
The best mosaics are shown in a small museum on-site
Main street was lined with the grand houses for which Volubilis is famous
Much of Volubilis remains to be excavated; mosaics were very impressive
Settlement only covered 30 acres but was compact to aid in defense; walls surrounded settlement
Town thrived under Romans in 2nd century AD but fell to local tribes in 285 AD
The Capitoline Temple; many impressive bronze sculptures were found here
Nearby holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun was, until recently, off-limits to non-Muslims
Prosperous settlement based on olives with affluent homes having elaborate mosaics
Much of Volubilis remained intact until the Lisbon earthquake in 1755
Volubilis easy day trip from Meknes if you have a car or local guide
Stork nest; settlement was completely abandoned around the 11th century
In recent decades Morocco has built more hydroelectric plants; rain usually only in winter
Common to see roadside stalls selling everything imaginable
Posted by VagabondCowboy 05:40
