Volubilis () is an archaeological site in Morocco situated near Meknes between Fez and Rabat. The nearest town is Moulay Idriss. Volubilis features the best preserved excavations in this part of northern Africa dating from the Roman Empire. In 1997 the site was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

In antiquity, Volubilis was an important Roman town situated on the westernmost border of Roman conquests. It was built about 40 C.E., probably on the site of a previous Carthaginian settlement from the 3rd century B.C.E. Volubilis takes its name from the ancient Latin name for the Oleander flower, which is common in the area.

Volubilis was the administrative center of the province in Roman Africa called Mauretania Tingitana. The fertile lands of the province produced many goods such as grain and olive oil, which were exported to Rome, contributing to the province's wealth and prosperity.

The Romans evacuated most of Morocco at the end of the 3rd century but, unlike some other Roman cities, Volubilis was not abandoned. Latin even remained in use until the Arab conquest of the 7th century and beyond.

Volubilis survived until the 18th century, when it was demolished and part of the marble was taken for constructions in nearby Meknes.

In 1915, archeological excavation was begun there by the French. Extensive remains have been uncovered.

Historic exhibits

• Basilica
• Thermae
• The Temple of Jupiter
• The Capitol
• Triumphal arch 3rd c.
• mosaics
• granies

See also

• List of World Heritage Sites in Africa
• Moulay Idriss

External links

• The Volubilis Project
• Volubilis on the UNESCO Website

Roman sites in Morocco | Archaeological sites in Morocco | World Heritage Sites in Morocco

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