The ruins of Volubilis are about 60 km west of Fes. The area was first developed in the 2nd century BC by the Berbers and the Carthaginians. Then around the 2nd century AD the Romans developed more of the area, building grand avenues, large houses, arch of triumph, basilica, forum and many other structures. What gives this site importance are two things. It’s located on the top of a small hill, where the breeze is used for cooling and the views of the surrounding countryside are stunning. We saw the same design on Crete at the Minoan Palace of Knossos. The second thing is the number of tile mosaics that have been uncovered. They are intricate, colourful and beautiful.
The other stop on our day excursion is Meknes. It was the capital of Morocco in the late 1600s. There is a grand palace there, along with huge stables thought to have housed 12,000 horses, thick walls, fancy gates, and a mausoleum. We, of course couldn’t get into the palace grounds, or the mausoleum but drive past the stables. Unfortunately, Murray and I take a wrong turn and never find the Medina. We wander down a street of residences and find a real locals market. End up having lunch at a real touristy restaurant that serves tour bus loads of people. So, Meknes was a bit of a dud for us.
The drive through the countryside is very much like the prairies and foothills. Large sections of land have been harvested and are awaiting spring. Rolling terrain leading up into the hills. There are other crops too, oranges, potatoes, squash. Rural towns spot the landscape. Murray sees olive trees used as separation between fields. Great idea as the olives are harvested also, making two crops for the farmers.
We have noticed that in Morocco the car AC is opening the windows. The Moroccans do not use AC to excess like some other countries. We like this.
Donkeys, not mules, are used here for many chores. Carting garbage out of the Medina, hauling cleared brush away and carrying goods and owners. Our driver tells us that donkeys are the Moroccan 4 by 4!
