A kinematic reconstruction of Iberia using intracontinental strike-slip corridors

Despite considerable progress in restoring rifted margins, none of the current kinematic models can restore the Mesozoic motion of the Iberian block in full agreement with the circum-Iberian geology. This conflict requires a revision of the kinematic description at the onset of divergence. The circum-Iberian region has a unique geological dataset that allows calibration and testing of kinematic reconstructions and therefore it is an ideal candidate for testing intracontinental restoration approaches. Here we define intracontinental deforming regions, referred to as strike-slip corridors, based on alignments of Mesozoic rift basins and/or transfer zones bordering rigid continental blocks. We use these strike-slip corridors and data from the southern N-Atlantic and Tethys to define the motion path of the Flemish Cap, Ebro and Iberia continental blocks. The resulting Mesozoic kinematic model for the Iberian block is compatible with recently published data and interpretations describing the Mesozoic circum-Iberian geology. Large-scale intracontinental strike-slip corridors may offer a valid boundary condition for reconstructing continental block motion at the onset of divergence in intracontinental settings.