Quaternary geology in Calabria (Southern Italy): an overview

Calabria (Southern Italy) extends over about 15,000 km2 in the complex tectonic framework of the Mediterranean region and provides a unique opportunity to study the interplay between tectonics and Quaternary evolution. By properly integrating literature and chronological constraints, a comprehensive analysis of the Calabrian Quaternary deposits resulted in the 1:250,000 scale map, here presented. Different depositional environments–including alluvial, marine, transitional, slope, and aeolian–have been described, testifying that notable climatic and tectonic changes occurred during the Quaternary. The impact of tectonics on sedimentation patterns provides valuable insights into regional landscape evolution throughout sub-epochs. The results of the present study contribute to a deeper understanding of geological processes shaping Calabria during the Quaternary.