The Moldanubian Units Sensu Stricto (MUSS) is an assemblage of high-grade metamorphic rocks corresponding to the deeper Variscan “orogenic root domain”. The MUSS portrays the results of multiple geodynamic episodes in the Variscan Orogen, namely: (a) Building of the orogenic root domain (~ 390–346 Ma) in response to the onset of ~ SE(ESE)-directed continental subduction and crustal thickening, which proceeded under HT–HP metamorphic conditions. This event gave rise to compressional (transpressional) ~ NNE–SSW striking foliation fabrics (S1), synchronous with the emplacement of a large number of calc–alkaline “arc-related” granitoids, particularly along the boundary between the Teplá–Barrandian Zone and the MUSS. (b) Collapse of the orogenic root and rapid crustal exhumation of deep-seated rocks at ~ 346–335 Ma. These processes were associated with the ascent of U(HP) rocks, a regional retrograde HT–MP(LP) isothermal overprint, and extensive decompression melting. This resulted in  the overall subvertical shortening in the mid-crustal level giving rise to subhorizontal exhumation-related fabrics (S2) and the emplacement of (ultra)potassic, magnesium rich granitoids (durbachites). Synchronous oblique ~ SW(SSW) directed underthrusting of the Brunia microcontinent beneath the eastern flank of the MUSS was active at ~ 346–335 Ma. (c) The late-orogenic convergence characterized by high-heat flow and voluminous magmatism (~335 to 325 Ma) ensued with ~ N–S shortening driven by the convergence of the crustal segment derived from the Gondwana continent. The convergence was accompanied by significant re-heating, HT metamorphic overprint, and additional melting. Associated regional ~ W(NW)–E(SE) striking foliation (S3) and the extensive, syn- to post-tectonic, crustally derived granites intruded as the Moldanubian Batholith. These processes were accompanied by the “gravity-driven” exhumation of ~ NNE–SSW trending migmatite-granite Pelhřimov Core Complex (PC) that ensued in the context of the fading oblique underthrusting of the Brunia microcontinent. (d) Subsequently, the post-collisional extension and cooling (~ 325–300 Ma) continued accompanied by the emplacement of the post-collisional peraluminous to calc-alkaline granitoids (up to ~ 300 Ma) and localized right-lateral shearing (transtension) along ~ NW(WNW)–SE(ESE) and ~ NE(NNE)–SW(SSW) striking shear zones.