Ancient Sites in Morocco You Probably Haven't Heard Of

Morocco is a country full of history, making it one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Destinations Featured For history lovers.

Chellah Cemetery, Morocco

The dark brown stone ruins of Chellah are one of the most visited archaeological sites in Morocco. 

It was originally a Phoenician trading market since the 3rd century AD.

Around 40 AD, the Romans built their own city, Chellah Colonia.

But the Romans lost control of Chellah Colonia around 250 AD, and it came under Christian Berber rule before they abandoned it in 1154.

Afterwards, the Arab Muslim Almohad dynasty continued to use the site as a cemetery.

Given its presence in Rabat It is easily accessible on foot or by taxi when visiting the city.

Chellah Cemetery, Rabat

Ruins of Volubilis, Morocco

It's easy to forget you're in Morocco while walking around Volubilis. Between the looming Roman ruins and the large, well-preserved mosaics.

 Volubilis is widely considered to be the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mauritania.

The city was occupied by several different powers between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century and was used for various purposes by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and Idrisids.

In 1997, Volubilis was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The best way to visit Volubilis is to take a day trip from Meknes, where private tours and shared taxis are available.

Oualili monuments, Meknes

Phoenician Tombs, Morocco

Although this ancient site is a popular picnic and photo spot for Tangier locals, it doesn't get much love from tourists. 

It might seem nice to walk around a cemetery. It's 3,000 years old, but it's easy to forget where you are when you see the views.

On a clear day, you can even see the town of Tarifa, Spain in the distance.

The Phoenician Tombs are a 15-minute walk from the Kasbah Museum. Tangier, right next to Hafa Cafe.

Phoenician Tombs, Tangier

Prehistoric inscriptions near Ait Ouazik

In the heart Sahara desert There are prehistoric rock carvings depicting many forms of hunting, battles and different animals.

Cattle and antelope engravings are the most common, but rhinoceroses, giraffes and elephants are also present.

There are over 300 similar sites around Morocco, mainly concentrated in the Atlas Mountains. And across the Sahara Desert. 

The location near Ait Ouazik is one of the most accessible.

You can drive here, but it's best to go with a local guide if you're not familiar with Moroccan roads.

Alternatively, you may be able to visit the site as part of a desert trip from Zagora.

Prehistoric inscriptions near Ait Ouazik

Lexus

The Phoenicians first settled in Lixus over 2,000 years ago.

Since then, various civilizations have controlled and built on different parts of Lixus.

Local tradition suggests that it was also the legendary garden of the Hesperides (meaning Gardens of the Golden Apples, an ancient Greek city).

There are Roman baths, mosaic floors, an amphitheatre and a Christian church, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get lost among the remnants of antiquity.

The archaeological site of Lixus is located on the outskirts of the city of Larache. On the northwestern coast of Morocco. 

Lexus, Larache

Caves of Hercules

Legend has it that the ancient Greek hero Hercules rested here. 

This cave complex is at least 8,000 years old and was originally thought to be bottomless.

It has two entrances, the most famous of which is a man-made Phoenician entrance supposedly facing the sea in the shape of the continent of Africa.

The Cape Spartel Lighthouse is located near the Caves of Hercules at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar – the most northwestern point of mainland Africa.

It is a 15-minute drive from Tangier.

Entrance to the Caves of Hercules in the shape of the continent of Africa, Tangier