Addressing Overprinting and Reoccupation of Middle-Late Pleistocene Palaeoshorelines in Southern Italy

The reconstruction of Late Quaternary sea-level changes in tectonically stable regions presents significant challenges, particularly in areas where younger sea-level highstands have modified or overprinted older palaeoshorelines. In this context, the synchronous correlation method has emerged as a critical tool for accurately constraining uplift rates and resolving the complexities of relative sea-level indicators (RSLi). This method integrates field observations, high-resolution topographic profiles, and global sea-level curves, iteratively aligning predicted and observed elevations to provide robust chronological frameworks for undated or ambiguous features. This study applies the synchronous correlation method alongside advanced dating techniques (U-series, AAR) to investigate reoccupation phenomena in the Apulian foreland and Cilento regions of Southern Italy. These areas, characterized by slow uplift rates, provide an ideal setting to explore the overprinting of palaeoshorelines. In Cilento, uplift rates of 0.009 mm/yr were calculated, revealing reoccupation between MIS 9c and MIS 5e. Similarly, in Puglia, the reoccupation of MIS 7.3 by MIS 5.5 demonstrates the complexities of palaeoshoreline preservation under low uplift conditions. By addressing the "overprinting problem," the synchronous correlation method enables precise age assignments and enhances understanding of the interplay between tectonics and eustatic processes. These findings refine interpretations of Mediterranean Quaternary coastal evolution and offer insights into palaeoclimate reconstructions, providing a foundation for assessing future coastal risks in tectonically stable regions. The integration of this methodology with multidisciplinary tools underscores its significance for advancing palaeoenvironmental studies.