Stratigraphic revision of the Eocene Albidona Formation in the Type Locality (Calabria, Southern Italy)

Original biostratigraphic and sedimentologic data of the type section of th e Albidona Formation (Liguride Complex, Southern Apennines, Italy) are pres ented and discussed. Since its definition in 1962, this lithostratigraphic unit has been the object of controversial interpretations in terms of age a ttribution and paleotectonic significance. Based on cross-observations perf ormed on calcareous nannofossils and palynomorphs, we conclude that the Alb idona Formation should be assigned to the Eocene. Based on this evidence, a review of the previous biostratigraphic literature is provided. Furthermor e, we recognise four different turbidite systems (named A to D), bounded by minor stratigraphic hiatuses, that are characterised by different sediment ary facies associations and petrofacies. The overall vertical arrangement d emonstrates that the Albidona Formation was deposited in a tectonically mob ile basin during a phase of deformation older than the apenninic deformatio n and may likely be referred to the alpine tectonics of the Calabrian are. Moreover, the relationship with the underlying folded unit suggests that th e Albidona Formation may be interpreted as an episutural deposit relevant c o a Paleogene deformation that affected the older units of the Liguride Com plex. Based on stratigraphic and sedimentological features, we suggest a co rrelation of the Albidona Formation with analogue turbidite suites cropping out in the Apennines, and we discuss their significance in the context of the Eocene tectonic paroxysm in the Mediterranean area.