Late Carboniferous Schlingen in the Gotthard nappe (Central Alps) and their relation to the Variscan evolution

Abstract Pre‐Mesozoic basements of the Alpine belt commonly contain kilometre‐scale folds with steeply inclined axial planes and fold axes, which are named “Schlingen” folds. The structural evolution Schlingen their geodynamic significance for Variscan unclear. To close this gap, study investigates a well-preserved structure in Gotthard nappe (Central Swiss Alps). This evolved by combination shearing folding under amphibolite-facies conditions. Detailed digital field mapping, coupled petrographical investigations, reveal local synkinematic migmatisation hinges parallel to planes. Zircon crystals from leucosomes have magmatic cores that yield an age 449 ± 3 Ma, rims range dates ~ 270 330 Ma (main cluster at 315 4 Ma). We ascribe late Carboniferous peak metamorphic conditions phase. Moreover, we describe first time post-Schlingen, but pre-Alpine transpressional deformation. investigated is discussed respect comparable structures wider realm, located most southern part belt. propose formation concurred crustal-scale tectonics. scenario separates, least sense, Southern Variscides more northern parts (also Gondwana derived), where absent.