The syn?rift tectono?stratigraphic record of rifted margins (Part I): Insights from the Alpine Tethys

The tectono-stratigraphic evolution of rift systems is at present poorly understood, especially the one preceding onset oceanic seafloor spreading. Improving our understanding complex, polyphase tectonic fossil Alpine Tethys, best calibrated magma-poor worldwide, offers great potential for interpretation distal part global rifted margins, which notoriously lack data. In this paper, we propose a model former whose remnants are exposed in Alps Western Europe. We first review historical some concepts grounding knowledge on Alpine- and margins. Then spatial temporal template Tethys system using ‘building block (BB)’ approach. This new approach powerful that it can integrate high-resolution, structural, stratigraphic, thermochronological, petrological observations from dismembered outcrops into margin-scale compatible with first-order seismic architecture defined present-day, detailed analysis syn-rift sequence margins demonstrates extension migrated localised while evolving stretching to necking phase. During hyperextension, rifting was asymmetric controlled by in-sequence detachment faulting. Then, evolved back more symmetric, embryonic spreading system. With contribution, aim allow readers without access unique ‘archive’ preserving world's best-exposed structures. Recognising these structures critical understand origin used explain deep-water interpret predict during advanced stages rifting.