Three-dimensional analysis of the Plio-Pleistocene seismic sequences in the Venice Lagoon (Italy)

Integrated seismic and well data provide for the first time a picture of the last 5 Myr geologic evolution of the Venice area and a three-dimensional subsoil model which is fundamental to predict the anthropogenic uplift of Venice by seawater injection. A Pliocene southward prograding complex formed a shelf-slope system, whereas subsidence related to the Apennine foredeep development led to the establishment of a Early-Pleistocene deep-water environment, favoring the accumulation of a thick turbidite succession. The NE progradation of the paleo-Po river delta during Middle-Pleistocene promoted a drastic environmental revolution, followed by the deposition of cyclothems linked to glacio-eustatic changes.