Lisbon Postcards

The Iberian Peninsula, located in the southwestern corner of Europe, is a geographically and culturally diverse region that includes Spain, Portugal, Andorra, and the British territory of Gibraltar. Known for its historical depth, varied landscapes, and vibrant cultures, the Iberian Peninsula is a major cultural crossroads with influences from Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Geography and Climate The Iberian Peninsula is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the east and southeast, the Atlantic Ocean to the west and northwest, and the Pyrenees Mountains to the northeast, which form a natural border with France. It is the second-largest peninsula in Europe, covering about 580,000 square kilometers. The region’s geography is remarkably diverse: Mountains: The Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada are prominent mountain ranges. Plateaus: The Meseta Central, a vast high plateau, dominates the interior of Spain. Coasts: The Iberian Peninsula boasts extensive coastlines, with Portugal's rugged Atlantic shores and Spain's sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches. Rivers: Major rivers like the Tagus, Ebro, Douro, and Guadalquivir provide water for agriculture and support diverse ecosystems. The climate varies, ranging from Mediterranean in the coastal areas (mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers) to Atlantic in the northwestern regions (cooler and wetter) and semi-arid in parts of southeastern Spain.