Volubilis
Quick stop in Volubilis.
As it was nearly 100 degrees out, that was OK. A bit warm for September in Morocco.
Built in a fertile agricultural area, it developed from the 3rd century BC onward as a Berber, then proto-Carthaginian, settlement. It grew rapidly under Roman rule from the 1st century AD onward and expanded to cover about 100 acres with a 1.6 mi circuit of walls.
The Romans brought their aqua-ducts and introduced olive trees. Prosperity, which was derived principally from olive growing, prompted the construction of many fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. The city of roughly 20,000-30,000 people, gained a number of major public buildings in the 2nd century, including a basilica, temple and triumphal arch. The city fell to local tribes around 285 and was never retaken by Rome because of its remoteness and indefensibility.
If you are a history buff, Morocco is Nirvana. I think every major historical event regarding human civilization included Morocco at some point.
All three Greek column types were found here, Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, but I was most impressed with the mosaic floors. After 2000 years, they are still in incredible condition, fine details and colors, and still so beautiful!
Volubilis
Quick stop in Volubilis.
As it was nearly 100 degrees out, that was OK. A bit warm for September in Morocco.
Built in a fertile agricultural area, it developed from the 3rd century BC onward as a Berber, then proto-Carthaginian, settlement. It grew rapidly under Roman rule from the 1st century AD onward and expanded to cover about 100 acres with a 1.6 mi circuit of walls.
The Romans brought their aqua-ducts and introduced olive trees. Prosperity, which was derived principally from olive growing, prompted the construction of many fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. The city of roughly 20,000-30,000 people, gained a number of major public buildings in the 2nd century, including a basilica, temple and triumphal arch. The city fell to local tribes around 285 and was never retaken by Rome because of its remoteness and indefensibility.
If you are a history buff, Morocco is Nirvana. I think every major historical event regarding human civilization included Morocco at some point.
All three Greek column types were found here, Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, but I was most impressed with the mosaic floors. After 2000 years, they are still in incredible condition, fine details and colors, and still so beautiful!