Distribution of Seismic Foci in the Mediterranean and Surrounding Area and its Tectonic Implication

Abstract

Determination of the main seismic zones in the Mediterranean and surrounding area has been made by plotting epicentres of shallow earthquakes in such a way as to make allowance for the magnitude and year of occurrence. These zones define the boundaries of several aseismic blocks. Some seismotectonic properties of the Hellenic and Calabrian arcs are also discussed. The data suggest a reconsideration of the tectonic models proposed to interpret the seismotectonics of this area.