Exploring the Heart of Morocco: A Journey to Moulay Idriss

A Day of Ancient Echoes and Spiritual Heights

Today, Olivia and I embarked on a journey that bridged the gap between the spiritual heart of Morocco and the echoes of the Roman Empire. It was a day of contrasts, where the serenity of a holy city met the grandeur of ancient ruins, leaving us both humbled and inspired.

Our day began with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Nassim in Moulay Idriss. The strong coffee and warm bread were the perfect fuel for the day ahead. As we sat there, enjoying the simple pleasures, the sounds of the town slowly waking up around us, I felt a sense of anticipation for what the day held. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of spices and mint tea, a familiar and comforting aroma that always makes me feel at home here. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Évora, where life unfolds at a slower pace, and every conversation is savored.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant Nassim, where delightful grill specialties meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.

After breakfast, we decided to simply wander through Moulay Idriss Downtown. The town, with its white and green buildings clinging to the hillside, is a sight to behold. It's a place of pilgrimage, named after Moulay Idriss I, the founder of Morocco's first Islamic dynasty. The atmosphere here is palpably different from anywhere else we’ve been in Morocco so far; there's a sense of reverence and peace that permeates the air. We strolled through the narrow, winding streets, absorbing the local culture and admiring the architecture. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we passed by the Grand Mosque, its presence a constant reminder of the town's spiritual significance. Olivia, ever the artist, was captivated by the intricate details of the buildings, snapping photos at every turn. I tried my hand at capturing the essence of the town through my lens, hoping to convey the unique atmosphere to those reading back home.


Experience the rich history and spiritual essence of Moulay Idriss Downtown, Morocco's sacred town nestled in the stunning hills of Zerhoun.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Our wandering eventually led us to the زيارة باب مولاي إدريس, a local shop. It was a vibrant hub of activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We spent some time browsing the various goods on display, from traditional Moroccan crafts to local produce. Olivia, of course, was drawn to the colorful textiles, while I found myself fascinated by the intricate pottery. We ended up buying a few small souvenirs, tokens to remind us of our time in this special place. I managed to haggle for a beautiful ceramic bowl, a skill I seem to have inherited from my Portuguese ancestors. Olivia, on the other hand, found a stunning handwoven scarf, its colors reflecting the vibrant hues of Morocco.


Explore the captivating antique store in Moulay Idriss for a unique glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture.

For lunch, we stopped at Haytam, a local restaurant. We enjoyed a delicious tagine, savoring the rich flavors and spices. It was a simple meal, but it was made all the more enjoyable by the warm hospitality of the staff and the lively atmosphere of the restaurant. As we ate, we chatted with a local family, learning about their lives and traditions. It's these interactions that truly make traveling worthwhile, the chance to connect with people from different backgrounds and share a moment of understanding.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Haytam in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - a hidden gem for food lovers seeking traditional delights.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Site Archéologique de Volubilis. Just a short drive from Moulay Idriss, these Roman ruins stand as a testament to Morocco's rich and diverse history. Founded in the 3rd century BC, Volubilis was once a thriving city, an important outpost of the Roman Empire. As we walked through the ruins, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago. Olivia and I wandered through the ancient streets, marveling at the well-preserved mosaics and the towering arches. The sheer scale of the site was impressive, a reminder of the power and influence of the Roman Empire.


Discover the captivating ruins of Volubilis, where ancient Roman history meets stunning Moroccan landscapes in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Arch of Caracalla stood proudly against the clear blue sky, a symbol of Roman power and architectural prowess. We explored the remains of the basilica, the forum, and the various houses, each telling a story of a bygone era. Olivia, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out the intricate mosaics that adorned the floors of the houses, depicting scenes from mythology and everyday life. I tried to capture the essence of the ruins through my photographs, hoping to convey the sense of history and grandeur to those who couldn't be here in person. I was particularly fascinated by the olive presses, a testament to the region's agricultural wealth. It's amazing to think that this place, once a thriving center of Roman life, was abandoned and left to decay, only to be rediscovered centuries later. As we wandered, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the ruins. The golden light illuminated the ancient stones, creating a magical atmosphere. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling of connection to the past.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Moulay Idriss, where we had dinner at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa. The restaurant offered stunning views of the town, lit up against the night sky. We enjoyed a delicious meal, reminiscing about the day's adventures. Olivia, ever the romantic, commented on how the town looked like a scene from a movie, its white buildings shimmering under the moonlight. I had to agree; there was something magical about this place, a sense of timelessness that made me feel like I had stepped back in time. We talked about our plans for tomorrow, excited to explore the Tombeau de Moulay Idriss 1er and Bab Rmila Natural Park.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa while enjoying breathtaking views and nearby hiking adventures in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.

Tomorrow promises another day of exploration, with plans to visit the Tombeau de Moulay Idriss 1er, a site I am particularly keen to see, given its historical and spiritual importance. We also intend to spend some time at Bab Rmila Natural Park, hoping to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region. And, if time permits, we might just find ourselves at La Colombe Blanche for a nightcap. As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a rich and diverse culture. Morocco continues to surprise and inspire me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. This trip with Olivia has been a wonderful experience so far, a chance to connect with each other and with the world around us. I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And as I sit here, writing these words, I realize that he was right. Traveling has indeed turned me into a storyteller, eager to share my experiences with the world. And so, until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and inspiration. I feel so grateful to be able to share these experiences with you all, and I hope that my words have inspired you to embark on your own adventures. Perhaps one day, you too will find yourself wandering through the ancient ruins of Volubilis or exploring the spiritual heights of Moulay Idriss. Until then, safe travels and happy reading!

As we prepare for our final days in the Moulay Idriss region, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness. This place has captured my heart in a way that few destinations have. But I know that our journey is far from over, and that there are many more adventures waiting for us around the corner. And so, with a sense of anticipation and excitement, I look forward to what tomorrow will bring, eager to continue exploring the beauty and wonder of Morocco.