Metamorphic map of the Alps

Metamorphic map of the Alps

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This map is also available in digital .pdf format in our catalogue.

From Corsica to the Vienna Basin (Austria), the Metamorphic Map of the Alps provides a millionth scale compilation of the different metamorphic conditions recorded during the Alpine orogeny since the Cretaceous. This synthesis is both an update and a reworking of the map "Map of the Metamorphic Structure of the Alps" published in 2004 by Oberhänsli et al. Together with the main map, a set of additional documents provides further data:

- on the different stages of the construction of the Alpine chain by a map of the tectonic-metamorphic age distributions on a scale of 1 : 2 500 000;
- on the depth distribution of metamorphic units along the four Alpine seismic profiles (TRANSALP, NFP20 East, NFP20 West, ECORS-CROP)
- on the interpretations, in terms of tectonic-metamorphic ages, of these four seismic profiles
- on the metamorphic facies recognised in the Alps, and the description of the different mineralogical associations according to the chemistry of the rocks.

Metamorphic map of the Alps

This work, like the Tectonic Map of the Alps (2012), is part of a general synthesis of geological, petrological and geophysical data acquired in the Alps. By favouring this approach, it remains representative of a state of knowledge at a given moment, a state that leaves many questions open and which therefore constitutes only a fundamental element of future discussions.

In this perspective, and following the example of the map published in 2004, the Metamorphic Map of the Alps proposes a global approach of the chain and tries to give an account of the geodynamic evolution over time.

Metamorphic map of the Alps

For more information on this map see http://www.geodynalps.eu