Mathematical modelling of geochemical processes is an excellent tool to achieve a better understanding of volcanic processes. Iberian volcanics formed by the crystallization of magmas originated by partial melting of source materials, which were previously affected by contamination processes. In some cases, later magma mixing (and/or assimilation of crustal material) also occurred. The present contribution displays a general review of the main genetic hypotheses proposed to explain the Cenozoic volcanism of the Iberian Peninsula, on the basis of the use of trace elements and isotope geochemistry (among others, La, Nb, Th, Sr, 87Sr/86Sr and ¿18O). Some hypotheses are revisited and an alternative genetic model is proposed.

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