Exploring the Heart of Morocco: A Journey to Moulay Idriss

Echoes of Empires and Faith

Today was a day of profound contrasts, a journey through time that took Olivia and me from the grandeur of a fallen Roman city to the serene spirituality of a sacred Moroccan town. It's amazing how much history is concentrated in this small corner of the world; every stone seems to whisper stories of empires and faith.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe restaurant ain zwawk مقهى و مطعم عين زواوق. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast of mint tea, bread, and olives. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Site Archéologique de Volubilis.


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

Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient Roman city that once thrived in this fertile region. As we approached, the sprawling ruins emerged against a backdrop of rolling hills and olive groves. The sheer scale of the site was impressive, and it was easy to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago. Olivia, ever the artist, was immediately captivated by the intricate mosaics that adorned the floors of the ancient villas. The vibrant colors and detailed designs have remarkably withstood the test of time. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the towering columns and the remnants of temples and basilicas, imagining the hustle and bustle of Roman life in this distant outpost. We wandered through the ruins, marveling at the Triumphal Arch and the House of Orpheus, each telling a unique story of Volubilis's rich past.

The sun was high and the temperature climbed steadily as we explored, making me regret forgetting my sun hat. Olivia, ever prepared, shared her sunscreen, a small act of consideration that always makes travelling with her a pleasure. I made a mental note to buy a local SIM card tomorrow; it would be useful for looking up historical facts on the spot and staying connected.

We decided to have lunch at the restaurant called Volubilis, conveniently located near the archaeological site. The tagine was delicious, and the mint tea provided a refreshing respite from the heat. It was the perfect opportunity to reflect on the history we had just witnessed.

To walk through Volubilis is to walk through the pages of history, feeling the pulse of a civilization long gone yet resonating in the stones beneath our feet.

In the afternoon, we journeyed to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, a town of immense spiritual significance, nestled on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun. This is where Moulay Idriss I, the founder of Morocco's first Islamic dynasty, established his rule in the 8th century. The town itself is a stunning sight, a cluster of white-washed buildings clinging to the hillside, with the distinctive green-tiled roof of the Tombeau de Moulay Idriss 1er standing out.


Experience the rich history and spirituality at Tombeau de Moulay Idriss 1er, the final resting place of Morocco's founder, a must-visit cultural gem.

As non-Muslims, we couldn't enter the tomb itself, but we were able to appreciate the serene atmosphere that permeated the town. The streets were narrow and winding, filled with the sounds of daily life – children playing, vendors selling their wares, and the ever-present call to prayer. It was a world away from the ancient Roman ruins we had explored earlier in the day. I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence, knowing that this town is considered one of the holiest places in Morocco.

We learned that Moulay Idriss I was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad who fled from Baghdad to escape persecution. He arrived in Volubilis in 789 and quickly gained the support of the local Berber tribes, establishing a new Islamic dynasty that would shape the course of Moroccan history. His tomb is now a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from all over the country.

Olivia and I strolled through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the traditional architecture. We paused at a viewpoint to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From here, we could see the ruins of Volubilis in the distance, a reminder of the layers of history that have shaped this region. The view was stunning, the rolling hills stretching out before us in a patchwork of greens and browns. The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden light over the landscape.

Before dinner, we decided to check out DAR INES MOULAY IDRISS ZERHOUN, a local bar. We enjoyed a couple of drinks while chatting with some locals. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the town and its people. I always find that these impromptu encounters are some of the most rewarding experiences when travelling.


Discover the charm of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun at Dar Ines, where authentic Moroccan hospitality meets breathtaking views and rich history.

For dinner, we chose Al Andaloussiya Diyafa, a restaurant known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with intricate tile work and comfortable seating. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by a tagine with lamb and apricots. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.


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

As we ate, we reflected on the day's experiences. From the grandeur of Volubilis to the spirituality of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, it had been a day of contrasts and discoveries. We had journeyed through time, explored different cultures, and learned about the rich history of this fascinating region. It was a day that I will not soon forget.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the natural beauty of Bab Rmila Natural Park and the historical Kasabah Senhaji. I'm particularly excited about the natural park, as I've heard it offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Olivia is looking forward to visiting Kasabah Senhaji, which is known for its traditional architecture and cultural significance. We'll start the day with breakfast at Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon, followed by lunch at Haytam. In the late afternoon, we'll visit the local shops at زيارة باب مولاي إدريس before having dinner at Grillade Albanna. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible places with Olivia. Her enthusiasm and curiosity always inspire me, and I know that together, we will continue to explore the world and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The call to prayer echoes through the valley, a soothing reminder of the ever-present faith that permeates this land. It's time to rest and prepare for another day of exploration.

The stars are shining brightly tonight, and the air is cool and crisp. I close my eyes and drift off to sleep, dreaming of ancient Romans and holy men, of mosaics and minarets, of tagines and mint tea. Morocco, you have captured my heart.