Day Trip From Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis
Overview
A Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis offers a fantastic opportunity to explore two of Morocco’s most historically rich destinations. On this excursion, you’ll discover the imperial city of Meknes, with its stunning architecture, impressive gates, and royal past, followed by a visit to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This day trip from Casablanca is perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to experience Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
Exploring the Imperial City of Meknes
Your Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis begins with a drive to the charming city of Meknes, which served as the capital of Morocco under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Known for its well-preserved historical monuments, Meknes offers a unique glimpse into Morocco’s imperial past.
First, your tour will take you to the magnificent Bab Mansour, one of the most famous gates in Morocco, which opens into the vast Place El Hedim, a bustling square that was once part of the royal palace complex. This monumental gate, built by Moulay Ismail, features intricate tile work and an impressive archway that stands as a symbol of the Sultan’s power.
Next, you’ll visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the resting place of the Sultan who transformed Meknes into an imperial city. The mausoleum is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, and it’s one of the few religious sites in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter. As you explore, you’ll learn about the significant role Moulay Ismail played in shaping the city and his contribution to Morocco’s architectural legacy.
A key feature of Meknes is its royal stables and attics, where the Sultan kept his horses and military personnel. These vast complexes showcase the scale and grandeur of Moulay Ismail’s reign, with rows of stalls and warehouses designed to house thousands of horses.
Discovering Volubilis: The Roman Ruins
After your visit to Meknes, your Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis continues with a journey to Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. Volubilis was once a thriving Roman city, serving as a provincial capital and an important center of trade. Its ruins offer a fascinating look into the Roman era, where ancient architecture and mosaic art still stand strong.
At Volubilis, you’ll walk through the remains of grand Roman villas, public buildings, and temples. One of the highlights is the House of Orpheus, which features one of the most beautifully detailed mosaics in the site, depicting the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The Capitoline Temple, dedicated to the Roman gods, is another notable monument at the site, with impressive columns still standing to this day.
The Arch of Caracalla, built to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor, is a striking structure that serves as a reminder of the city’s former importance. As you walk through the ruins, you’ll notice the intricate blend of Roman and local Berber architectural styles, showcasing the fusion of cultures that defined this ancient city.
Why a Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis Is a Must-Do
A Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis is an essential excursion for anyone visiting Morocco. Meknes is a city rich in history, with its imperial gates, palaces, and monuments offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Morocco’s past. Volubilis, on the other hand, provides a rare opportunity to explore one of the most well-preserved Roman sites in North Africa, making it an essential destination for history buffs.
This day trip allows you to experience both the medieval splendor of Morocco’s imperial past and the ancient Roman heritage that shaped the region. Whether you’re fascinated by architecture, history, or archaeology, this journey offers something for everyone.
Return Journey to Casablanca
After a day of exploring the incredible sites of Meknes and Volubilis, you’ll head back to Casablanca, reflecting on the rich cultural heritage you’ve experienced throughout the day. The journey back offers a chance to relax and appreciate the beauty of Morocco’s countryside as you return to the bustling modernity of Casablanca.
The Perfect Cultural Day Trip
A Day Trip from Casablanca to Meknes and Volubilis is an enriching experience that offers a deep dive into Morocco’s diverse history and heritage. From the impressive gates of Meknes to the ancient ruins of Volubilis, this day trip provides a unique opportunity to explore two of Morocco’s most historically significant sites. Whether you’re interested in Moroccan architecture, Roman history, or simply want to explore the heart of the country’s cultural legacy, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Included/Exclude
- Air Conditioned Private Transport
- English speaking driver
- Hotel Pick up and Drop off
- English speaking local guide in Meknes and Volubilis
- Lunch, Drinks, Tips and Extras.
- Monument Entrance Fees
Tour Plan
The driver will pick you up early in the morning at 07:00 AM and head to Meknes and Volubilis.
The journey today begins with a tour of the walls of Meknes with monumental gates dating from the seventeenth century Berdaïne Bab, Bab Khemis. Continue exploring the city by the stables (Rua), attics (HERI), and Stud. Stop at the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the only mosque that non-Muslims could visit in Morocco for a long time. Exit through the famous Bab Mansour El on the vast square Hedim. On the other side of the square, the Museum of Moroccan Art "Dar Jamai" offers a wide variety of handicrafts.
El Hedim Square "the square of demolition") is a famous square in Meknes, Morocco. The square was built in the years 1672-1674 after the Sultan of Morocco, Moulay Ismail, demolished half of the Old city of Meknes for his palace and the square.
Then continue the trip to Volubilis.
Visiting Volubilis is like stepping back in time to ancient Roman Morocco. Volubilis is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Volubilis was once a thriving Roman city, founded in the 3rd century BC. It flourished as a provincial capital and important center for trade, known for its production of olive oil and grain. Wander through the ruins and marvel at the well-preserved mosaics, columns, and arches that once adorned grand Roman villas and public buildings. Highlights include the House of Orpheus, the Capitoline Temple, and the Arch of Caracalla. Explore the blend of Roman and indigenous culture reflected in the architecture and art found at Volubilis. The site also provides insights into daily life during Roman times in this part of Africa. While exploring, you can hire a local guide to provide historical context and stories about the site. Be prepared for uneven terrain and take plenty of water and sun protection, especially in warmer months.
Visiting Volubilis offers a unique opportunity to delve into Morocco's rich history and experience the grandeur of Roman civilization in North Africa.
On the afternoon back to Casablanca.
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