Palaeogeographic reconstruction of northern Tyrrhenian coast using archaeological and geomorphological markers at Pianosa island(Italy)

Abstract This paper provides new data and interpretations on the relative sea level change occurred at Pianosa island (Italy) since the last ∼125 ka, where the recent relative sea level changes have not yet been adequately constrained, based on geomorphological and archaeological research of tectonic movements. The MIS 5.5 deposits are characterized by a 2 m thick sandstone, cropping out at a maximum altitude of 4 m a.s.l. containing Strombus bubonius , and are associated with an abrasion platforms carved by lithodome holes. These deposits, considered one of the best long term sea level markers, establish that Pianosa was a stable area since 125 ka. Archaeological remains provide evidence of sea level change for the last ∼8 ka. Particularly useful are some fishtanks and a quarry cut around 2 ka BP (Roman age). The measurements, compared with predicted sea level curves, have established that Pianosa has remained stable during the last millennia. Based on this assumption, palaeomorphology variations since Palaeolithic age for this portion of the Tuscan Archipelago are reconstructed.