The Central Mediterranean is characterized by a complex tectonic and geodynamic setting driven by the convergence of the African and Eurasian plates and shaped by the remnants of Alpine structures, ancient Tethyan subduction systems, as well as the interaction with the Adriatic microplate. Within this framework, the Ionian region represents a key area for understanding the ongoing deformation of the Central Mediterranean. Strong spatial variations in strain rates, together with a complex and diffuse plate-boundary configuration characterized this region with the highest seismic hazard in the Mediterranean region.
Despite extensive geological, geophysical, and seismological studies, significant uncertainties remain regarding the kinematics and geometry of major tectonic structures, including the Cephalonia–Lefkada Transform Fault. Fundamental questions also remain concerning crustal and upper-mantle structure, the geometry and activity of faults, and the geodynamic processes controlling present-day deformation and seismicity.
This session welcomes studies investigating the tectonic and geodynamic evolution of the Central Mediterranean, from the shallow crust to the upper mantle, using geological, geophysical, geodetic, and seismological approaches. We particularly encourage contributions addressing crustal and mantle structure, active fault systems, plate-boundary kinematics, deformation and seismicity, and the interaction between inherited structures and ongoing tectonic processes. The main goal is to bring together complementary observations and modelling approaches to improve our understanding of the current tectonic framework and the geodynamic mechanisms governing the present-day deformation and natural hazards of the Central Mediterranean.
This session is dedicated to the memory of César R. Ranero, who contributed enormously to advancing our understanding of this complex region of our world.