Visit These Unique Attractions In Exotic Morocco This Year

When travelers head to Morocco, they mostly visit the big cities like Fez, Casablanca or Marrakech. More adventurous folk may also venture into the desert on a camel to meet the Berbers. Meanwhile, there are two fascinating and unique sites to visit in this North African country, including the fascinating tree goats and iconic Roman ruins. Read on to find out more about these fascinating sights to see in Morocco.

Tree goats of Morocco

You may have seen images of Morocco’s famous tree goats used as humorous memes on social media. However, they are the real deal and the reason for climbing trees is simple. The animals love the delicious fruit of the thorny argan trees that can be seen all over Morocco.

While the argan trees aren’t particularly scenic, the sight of the tree goats, perching on the crooked branches is something fascinating to see.

If you haven’t come across argan trees before, they are a rare species, almost exclusively grown in the North African country. In the past, the trees were over-farmed but these days the trees are a protected species.

Each year the trees offer a crop of delicious fruit, which instantly draws goats from the surrounding areas. Moreover, they are quick to jump up onto the branches to have a tasty feast.

As the fruit is so delicious, one might wonder why the local farmers are happy to let the goats feast. However, they do keep them at bay until the fruit is fully ripe. It may sound strange that animals are then allowed to eat the ripe argan fruit. However, there is a method in the farmers’ madness.

After the goats feast to their fill, they pass valuable clumps of seeds in their droppings. The farmers then gather the seeds to press them into the much-sought-after argan oil. Here’s hoping that the method of producing argan oil doesn’t put you off the delicacy for life.

Ancient Roman city of Volubilis

When visiting Morocco, you don’t normally think of Roman ruins, but, set between Meknes and Fez is the ancient city of Volubilis. Anyone with a love of history will find this UNESCO World Heritage Site a worthwhile visit.

The original city of Volubilis was constructed in the 3rd century BC and has seen multiple occupiers. Here, the Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans enjoyed a stay, but by the year 285, local residents took the city back.

Following this, the Latin Christians stayed for a while, followed by the Muslims until the founders of modern Morocco took over the site. However, in the 11th century, the city was abandoned when the dynasty made a move to Fez.

During the 18th century, an earthquake led to many of the city’s stones being removed to build the city of Meknes. However, during the French occupation of Morocco, archaeologists uncovered the glorious remains of the Roman city of Volubilis. Not only were there fully intact mosaic floors to admire, but also baths, an aqueduct, temples and a basilica.

These days, the remains of the ancient city are occupied by the famous storks, who have taken up residence on the top of the Roman columns. In fact, while there are many storks living on monuments around the country, Volubilis is one of their favorite nesting sites.

Moreover, the site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and is well worth a tour while traveling the road between Meknes and Fez.