Probably few places on Earth are able to match the landscape and environmental variability of the Iberian Peninsula, a relatively small area in which we find represented the majority of planetary biomes. This diversity, which is evident with only a few kilometers, reflects the geological and climatic instability that has historically characterized the Mediterranean. The advance and retreat of glaciers, the drying and opening of the Mediteranean Sea or the change in wind patterns and ocean currents are some of the processes that have ben shaped over time the climatic identity of the Peninsula. The predominant orientation of mountain ranges, aligned East-West, has helped to increase more, if possible, this biological diversity, making difficult the latitudinal migrations of flora and fauna to most favorable climatic zones. Thus, a large number of species from other envinonments have been left trapped in the Peninsular lands, and have been forced to evolve independently. Subtropical rhododendrons with boreal firs, wolves feeding on the beaches or seals diving among corals are just some examples of its unique biodiversity.
Leaning to the neighboring continent, as the hand stretched from Europe to Africa, the Peninsula has historically acted as a bridge between two different worlds, as close as different. Indeed, the proximity of Africa has given the vinal touch of originality that the mosaic of Iberian wildlife lacked. It is surprising that mangooses, macaques, ibis, geckos and chameleons can be part of the European fauna.
But certainly what is surprising is that there is still a corner in the confines of Western Europe whose natural areas preserve the wild spirit of yesteryear. Even today you can see landscapes away from the hand of the man which give shelter to the last representatives of extinct species in other parts of Europe. We should consider ourselves, therefore, holders of the latest examples of European nature, responsible for its preservation for future generations.
