Neogenic Evolution

This chapter describes the geodynamic interpretation that can coherently and plausibly account for the very complex space–time distribution of the observed tectonic events in the Mediterranean region. The basic concept underlying the proposed view is that the tectonic evolution of the study area, with particular regard to the generation of trench-arc-back arc systems, was mainly controlled by the lateral escape of buoyant structures, driven by the convergence of the confining plates (Africa, Arabia and Eurasia). The important role played by extrusion processes is related to the fact that their development has allowed the consumption of the low buoyancy old oceanic zones that were largely present in the Oligocene configuration of the study area. It is suggested that the lateral bending of orogenic belts, stressed by longitudinal compression, can cause the opening of large basins, when the migration rate of the escaping/bending structures overcomes the convergence rate of the confining plates. This tectonic mechanism led to the formation of the Balearic, Tyrrhenian, Aegean and Pannonian basins.