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Cultural excursion from Fez: The archaeological site of Volubilis

After a traditional breakfast served on the patio, a day trip from Riad Fès Baraka offers the opportunity to discover one of the major archaeological sites of ancient Morocco. Located approximately a 1.5-hour drive through the rolling landscapes of the Saïs region, the site of Volubilis is the first stop on a comprehensive day tour that also includes a visit to the holy village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and the imperial city of Meknes.

Volubilis: A masterpiece of Roman antiquity in Morocco

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological site of Volubilis testifies to the influence of ancient Rome on the western borders of the Empire (province of Mauretania Tingitana).

1. Historical Facts

Founded in the 3rd century BC, Volubilis was initially a Hellenistic and Berber city before becoming an important Roman colony. It reached its peak under the reigns of the emperors Septimius Severus and Caracalla (2nd and 3rd centuries). The city then grew wealthy thanks to trade and the export of olive oil and wheat to Rome.

2. Artistic and architectural heritage

From an aesthetic and architectural point of view, the city preserves first-rate remains:

• Mosaics in situ: Volubilis is distinguished by the exceptional preservation of its floor mosaics, which have remained in their original locations. Among the remarkable works are The Punishment of Dirce , Diana at her Bath , and The Triumph of Bacchus . The fineness of the tesserae and the rich polychromy illustrate the mastery of the mosaic artisans of the period.
• Monumental architecture: The ruins allow us to observe the key structures of the Roman city: the Arch of Caracalla (erected in 217 AD), the Capitol dedicated to the Capitoline Triad (Jupiter, Juno, Minerva), the Basilica and the baths.
• Olive oil engineering: The site contains the remains of numerous stone olive oil presses (the arcus), attesting to the economic organization of the ancient city.

Practical information for your excursion

• Departure: In the morning after breakfast at Riad Fès Baraka.
• Duration: Full day (return to the Riad in the late afternoon).
• Transport: Pick-up directly from the Riad by our official transport partner in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with driver.
• Today's itinerary: Discovery of the archaeological site of Volubilis, stop at the holy village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, then continuation of the journey towards the imperial city of Meknes before returning to the Riad Fes Baraka.

Riad Architecture: An eco-friendly air conditioner that's centuries old!

If you have ever walked through the door of a Riad in the middle of summer, you have surely been struck by the immediate sensation of coolness.

It's not magic, it's physics!

Here's how a riad regulates its temperature:

The "chimney" effect : The Riad is designed around its patio. The cool night air is trapped at floor level. During the day, the warm air rises and escapes through the roof, creating a natural and constant flow of fresh air in the living areas.

Shield walls : Made of earth and lime, our ultra-thick walls possess high thermal inertia. They absorb the sun's heat all day long without ever letting it in. It is only released at nightfall!

The adiabatic effect : The water in our swimming pool and the greenery of the patio are not just for decoration. As it evaporates, water consumes thermal energy and lowers the ambient temperature by several degrees.

To experience a Riad is to understand the genius of the builders of the Medina.

What a pleasure it was to recently welcome Claude and Fairouz's group for a magical stay in the heart of the Fes medina! Between relaxing moments around the pool in our traditional patio, hammam sessions and delicious dinners prepared by our cook Samira, it was an unforgettable interlude.

Treat yourself to the exclusivity of the Riad for your holidays with family or friends (up to 18 people).

For logistical reasons, full privatization at a single price (€500/day) is only available upon personalized request.

✉️ Contact us directly by email to reserve your dates: riadfesbaraka@gmail.com

Treat yourself to a unique experience in the heart of the Fes medina by booking the entire Riad Fes Baraka & Spa. For your family vacation, a getaway with friends, or a private event in Morocco, enjoy the exclusive luxury of a charming riad in a calm, authentic, and welcoming setting, entirely dedicated to your group.

An ideal capacity for up to 18 people

Our riad has 6 spacious and comfortable rooms and suites , accommodating up to 18 people in total. By opting for complete privatization, you can enjoy all our charming facilities in total privacy and without any other guests:

• The large traditional patio and the riad's swimming pool .
• Our wellness area with a traditional hammam and massage room .
• The sunny rooftop terrace and its relaxation areas.

A tailor-made stay and private Moroccan evenings

Ideally located in the Batha district, very close to the famous Bab Boujloud gate, our riad is the perfect starting point for exploring Fez. Our team goes the extra mile to design your ideal stay:

• Included services: Delicious Moroccan breakfasts every morning and free transfers (airport or train station).
• Daily tasks: Preparation of traditional Moroccan meals by Samira, organization of your excursions (Meknes, Middle Atlas, Chefchaouen) and booking of official guides.
• Your festive events: We organize memorable private evenings for you with traditional Moroccan folklore shows (Gnaoua music, Issaoua troupes and captivating oriental entertainment).

The privatization offer in summary

• Maximum capacity: Up to 18 people (6 private rooms and suites).
• Included as standard: Hearty breakfasts + Free airport or train station transfer.
• Single price: €500 per day for the entire riad.

✉️ How to book? Exclusive use of our house cannot be booked directly online. To check our availability and reserve your dates, please contact us by email at riadfesbaraka@gmail.com . Our team will respond as soon as possible to plan your stay.