Overthrusts in the Central Bergamasc Alps, Italy

Abstract

Earlier tectonic interpretations indicated the presence of northward as well as southward overthrusts in the Central Bergamasc Alps. In the present study it was found that all overthrusts are southward. The extent of the overthrust sheets is much greater than previously believed. All Late Triassic and younger formations south of the Central Bergamasc Alps, previously thought to be autochthonous, have been moved a maximum of 9 km to the south. Overthrusting in the Bergamasc Alps was the result of gravity tectonics.