Abstract
The relationship between the geotectonic zones of the Hellenides orogen is important for understanding its geological evolution. The Parnassus–Ghiona geotectonic zone in central Greece has long been interpreted as thrust over the Vardoussia subzone. On the basis of detailed geological mapping, supported by a stratigraphic study and tectonic observations, no evidence of an overthrust of the Ghiona limestones on the Vardoussia flysch was found. The new data show that the transition of the Ghiona limestones to the Vardoussia flysch is a sedimentary passage and at certain places the base of the flysch is marked by a basal conglomerate formation. The entire deformation of the Ghiona is related to a large-scale anticline of the limestone series, presenting a highly inclined western limb, overlain by the flysch strata, which were deposited in a common basin between Ghiona and Vardoussia mountains. Consequently, questions concerning the geotectonic position of the Vardoussia subzone and the role of the Parnassus–Ghiona zone to the orogenic evolution of the eastern External Hellenides are raised.
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Acknowledgments
Special thanks are due to Mercier JL and Piper D for their thoughtful and very constructive review. Thanks are extended to Mountrakis D and Marinos P for their helpful criticism. Part of the micropalaeontological determinations was conducted by Carras N, of the Institute of Geology and Mineral Exploration, Athens, Greece.
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Mettos, A., Rondoyanni, T. & Ioakim, C. Reconsideration of the structural relationship between the Parnassus–Ghiona and Vardoussia geotectonic zones in central Greece. Int J Earth Sci (Geol Rundsch) 98, 1927–1934 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-008-0350-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-008-0350-z