2/12/2015

Spiritual and archeological sites in Morocco: MEKNES AND VOLUBILIS

This is a day-long excursion taking you  to Meknes, the former capital city of Morocco, the pilgrimage centre of Moulay Idriss, and the Roman ruins at Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  
From Fes, we drive through the vineyards of the plain for around an hour, to reach the Imperial City of Meknes.  You can explore this relaxing city for around three hours – some unmissable sights include Moulay Ismail’s shrine, his stables (for 12,000 horses!), the Place el-Hedim (a pedestrianised square) and the spacious souks (markets).
Moulay Idriss
Moulay Idriss © Adam Jones, Ph.D. – Global Photo Archive
After lunch, we drive 30km to Moulay Idriss, set on a hillside.  This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites and spiritual centres of Morocco, as Moulay Idriss was a great-grandson of the prophet Mohammed who lived in the 8th century.  Although access to the shrine itself is limited, it is worth wending your way through the many little streets that give onto wonderful views of the surrounding valley and the Roman site of Volubilis. From here it is a very short drive to Volubilis, with excellent photo opportunities on the way.  This is the most extensive and well-preserved Roman site in Morocco, famous for its brilliant mosaic floors, and you will be given a guided tour.  It also has wonderful views of the Rif Mountains. We return to Fes in the late afternoon.
Our customers always enjoy this day tour!

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