The metamorphic and structural evolution of the Phyllite-Quartzite Nappe of western Crete

The Phyllite-Quartzite (PQ) Nappe constitutes an external, allochthonous complex of the Hellenides on the island of Crete and shows a polyphase structural history. A first phase of deformation (F 1) produced recumbent isoclinal folds, a penetrative schistosity, and boudinage under high-P/low-T metamorphic conditions. Mylonite formation at the top of the PQ Nappe, below the overriding Tripolitza Nappe, further boudinage, and schistosity (S 2) represent a late tectono-metamorphic episode. Post-metamorphic small folds (F 3), lineations, and a crenulation cleavage were formed synchronously with transport of the PQ Nappe. A last phase (F 4) developed small folds, a fracture/crenulation cleavage, and large-scale folds after nappe movement. It is suggested that high-P/low-T metamorphism in the PQ rocks originated during subduction. Nappe transport of the higher, unmetamorphosed units, which were thrust over the PQ Nappe, began under waning metamorphic conditions. Subsequent transport of the PQ Nappe itself also occurred after the completion of metamorphism and after the formation of the mylonite at its top.