The Iberian Peninsula is located in the southwestern corner of Europe and consists of Spain and Portugal. The connection of the peninsula to the rest of Europe is punctuated by the Pyrenees Mountain Range. Spain and Portugal, because of their proximity to Northern Africa have Moorish roots (for approximately 500 years) along with Roman influences (since the region was conquered in the Second Punic War). The two countries have millions of visitors each year who come to see the many cities and towns with their rich histories.

All of this assemblage of the top 40 tourist attractions on the Iberian Peninsula are found in Spain.

20. Santiago de Compostela, Spain — This is the most important and most popular pilgrimage site in Spain. Thousands follow the “Way of St James,” the route the apostle took through the country which ended with his death in Santiago de Compostela, a location now marked with an impressive cathedral.

19. Cuenca, Spain — This town is famous for its “hanging houses,” residences built on a precipitous cliff so that they seem to “hang” in the air.

18. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain — Designed by noted architect Frank Gehry, this modernistic building is a showplace in itself. The museum also holds some fabulous Art.

17. Salamanca, Spain — This enchanting town northwest of Madrid has one of Spain’s most beautiful and popular squares. Salamanca is also the home of Spain’s oldest and most prestigious university.

Plaza Mayor

16. Pamplona, Spain — Forever linked to Hemingway and to its annual festival, the “Running of the Bulls,” Pamplona is positively filled with tourists during the San Fermin feast in early July.