When I was a child, I always had a strange dream in my little imagination. I used to imagine waking up one morning and going to Volubilis, which is only 4 km away from my Hometown (Moulay Idriss Zerhoun) . In my dream, I would find Roman soldiers in their red clothes walking around there, and the city had returned to its old life.
When I grew up, I later realized that this dream was not out of the blue. The ancient history of this spot completely enchants and transports you through time, It truly feels magical.
Volubilis Label :
Although the true origin of Volubilis Local name “Oualili” remains unknown, it is speculated that it could be a Latin corruption of the Berber word “walilt” This term possibly refers to the oleander plant, which flourishes along the edges of the valley beneath Volubilis.
I remember the beautiful view and its pink flowers by the water. When we were young, we used to go there to fish, have fun, and play. Those were truly beautiful days. Unfortunately, the valley dried up, and the fish left due to a lack of rainwater. Now, only memories remain.
Anyway , Let’s move on from my nostalgia and shift our focus away from the past.
Geographical location:
Volubilis was constructed on a gentle incline, situated beneath Mount Zerhoun and above Khouman valley , commanding a scenic view of a lush, undulating plain to the north of Meknes. The region is renowned for its exceptionally fertile soil, encompassed by olive groves in every direction, along with expanses of wheat and barley fields.
I believe you are saying now : “Come on, come on, buddy, we know the site. Hurry us to the glorious history.”
Well, you’re welcome. Let’s proceed.
Volubilis throughout history
History is beautiful and interesting, especially when discussing Volubilis. However, it would require writing a book to encompass all the intricate details. So, I will attempt to provide a summary, highlighting the significant historical milestones that the city has experienced and their impact on its development.
Prehistory
Yes, as you hear, it is known that the area around Volubilis has been inhabited since the Atlantic Neolithic period, approximately 5,000 years ago. This conclusion is supported by the discovery of pottery fragments from that time period.
Interesting, isn’t it?
Third century BC
In this era, the Carthaginians were present in Volubilis, and historians have uncovered evidence of their presence through the remains of a temple dedicated to the Punic God Baal, as well as pottery and stones with engravings in the Phoenician language.
It’s becoming quite fascinating, isn’t it? The great civilization of Carthage has left its mark on this place. So, what comes next?
In 146 BC
After the fall of Carthage, Volubilis came under the rule of the Berber kingdom of Mauretania, which subsequently became a client state of the Romans.
In 25 BC
Juba II, the King of Numidia, who was appointed to the throne of Mauretania Tingitana by Emperor Augustus, made a significant decision to establish a royal capital in Volubilis. This marked a pivotal moment in the city’s history as it transformed into the capital of a kingdom, signifying a qualitative transition for Volubilis.
If you are wondering about the man, I mean Juba II, he is a king of Berber origin, but had a unique background as he grew up and received education in Rome. He further cemented his connection to Roman culture by marrying Cleopatra Selene II, the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Despite their Berber heritage, both Juba II and his son Ptolemy held the title of Roman kings, a distinction that greatly influenced the art and architecture of Volubilis. This Roman influence is evident in the city’s design, showcasing a blend of Roman aesthetics and Berber heritage.
1st century AD
40-44 AD
Despite a revolt led by one of Ptolemy‘s freedmen, Adaemon, the city remained loyal to Rome. As a result, its residents were rewarded with citizenship, in addition to being exempted from taxes for 10 years. Furthermore, the system of government was reformed from the Punic style to the Roman style.
44 AD
Emperor Claudius annexed the Kingdom of Mauritania, bringing it under direct Roman rule. During this period, Volubilis experienced significant expansion and prosperity, driven by its abundant resources in grain, olive oil, and wild animals, which were in high demand for export.
The second century AD
During this era, Volubilis witnessed the construction of several prominent public buildings that added to its grandeur. These included the basilica, the Capitol Temple, the Triumphal Arch, and the Arch of Caracalla. Additionally, numerous elegant houses featuring captivating mosaic floors were built, which will undoubtedly captivate your attention when you visit the city.
This period marked Volubilis as a symbol of wealth and luxurious living. The population of the city reached approximately 20,000 people in the late second century, a considerable number for a Roman regional town at that time.
The third century AD
Following the discovery of Hebrew funerary inscriptions dating back to this era, it became evident that a Jewish community existed in Volubilis during that time. However, as the Roman Empire started to disintegrate, Roman rule in many regions of Mauritania collapsed around 280 AD. In the midst of this chaos, Rome lost control over the city, marking the end of their governance over Volubilis.
285 AD
The city eventually succumbed to the local tribes, and Rome was unable to regain control. As a result, Volubilis remained in the hands of the indigenous tribes, and Rome was unable to reclaim the city.
Sixth and seventh centuries
The city was later reconquered by the Eastern Roman Empire, and it became a settlement for a thriving Christian community. After its recapture, Volubilis saw the establishment of a vibrant Christian population within its walls, further shaping the city’s cultural and religious landscape.
8th century
708 AD
In the year 708, the region saw the arrival of the Arabs. The city, which was then under the rule of the Berber tribe Awraba, underwent a transformation and its name was changed to Walila or Walil.
During this period, a significant portion of the city center was abandoned, eventually becoming a cemetery. Meanwhile, the focal point of residence shifted towards the southwest, prompting the construction of a new wall to demarcate the altered city limits.
787 AD
After arriving from the Middle east , and receiving allegiance from the Berber tribes, Idris I chose Volubilis as the capital of his rule. He extended his influence over a significant portion of northern Morocco and subsequently founded the city of Fez.
However, following Idris I assassination in 791 and during the reign of his son, Idris II, the capital was relocated to Fez. This shift in power deprived Volubilis of its remaining political influence.
As a result, many local residents of Volubilis migrated to the newly established neighboring Town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun. It was in this city that the body of Moulay Idriss was later transferred, solidifying its significance as a revered spiritual and pilgrimage site.
14th century AD
After the eighth century, Volubilis continued to be inhabited for several centuries, but it was likely abandoned in the fourteenth century AD.
18th century AD
Unfortunately, the Lisbon earthquake that occurred in 1755 caused significant destruction to the city, reducing it to mere ruins and scattered stones. Consequently, the name of the city was forgotten, and the residents of the region began referring to it as “Pharaoh’s Palace”.
19th century AD
During the period of French occupation in Morocco, the historic city of Volubilis was rediscovered. Approximately half of the site was excavated, unveiling numerous exquisite mosaics. Additionally, several public buildings and prestigious residences were meticulously restored and reconstructed.
20th century AD
Volubilis has been acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is described as “an extraordinarily well-preserved illustration of a substantial Roman colonial city situated on the outskirts of the Empire“