Meknes - while a nice place to see the mausoleum did not really have much more to offer. Seems like the place is ready to monopolize on its one hit wonder and hoards of tourist gouging vendors line the streets. Thus we headed north to the hilly town of Moulay Idriss which was named after the grandson of the prophet who had to flee from Arabia and settled in Morocco to establish the Idrisid Dynasty. While a pilgrimage site for many Muslims, most of it is closed to non-muslims. However, near by are the Roman ruins of Volubilis. This is named after the local flowers, morning glory. It was once the capital of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana. The site is incredible and only a portion of it has been excavated. While most of the buildings that one can see are actually reconstructed by contemporary archeologists, there is still plenty to suggest the Roman way of life. Strolling along the main roads that lead up to the triumphal arch, or seeing the remains of intricate mosaic floors, one gets a good sense of how Romans on the very fringe of their vast
empire lived. The ruins are situated on a slowly inclined field and one can see the remains of its sewage system under the main roads. Surrounding the ruins is lush fields of various crops. In summary - if you are into the whole history thing - and for that matter if you are not, don't miss this place. 
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