Sunday, July 5, 2009

Volubilis





We went to Volubilis (6/27) which is near Meknes. The site was settled as early as the 3rd century BCE (Before Common Era) and prospered to 40 CE (Common Era a.k.a. AD). The Romans annexed the town in 45 CE. 

It is an odd town, with mixes of Roman, Greek and Berber architecture elements.


It was known for it's olive oil production. Below is an industrial olive press for making the oil.

Volubilis is also known for beautiful mosaics. They are unfortunatley being damaged by the elements as they are uncovered and are also not guarded, so easily walked upon by uncaring tourists.

The art and architecture is unusual in this odd city, as there are elements of Roman, Greek and Berber art elements. For instance, the columns have Greek tops (Corinthian style), with Roman style bottoms, then there are Berber symbols (wheat, flowers etc.)

One interesting animal fact is that storks (not sure what kind) winter here (though some stay year round), and they build thier massive nests everywhere, in the highest spots... this particular stork (below) has built their nest (they are monogamous) on top of one of the old columns! In a true display of being a good neighbor, sparrows nest in the bottom part of the nest.

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