Alps-Apennines and Po Plain-frontal Apennines relations

Abstract

The objectives of this chapter are (1) to review the complex relations between the Alps and the Northern Apennines, and (2) to outline the kinematic history in the transitional belt from the Northern Apennines front to the adjoining Po Plain foreland. The first section contains a comparative summary of the structural evolution of the two adjoining chains. The second section unravels the relations among the three main tectonic elements buried beneath the Quaternary deposits of the Po Plain; that is (1) the N-facing Northern Apennines front, (2) the S-facing Southern Alps front and (3) the Adriatic-Po Plain foreland in between. The third section discusses possible interpretations and implications.