Deciphering western Mediterranean kinematics using metamorphic porphyroblasts from the Alpujárride Complex (Betic Cordillera)

3D microstructural analysis of porphyroblast inclusion trails using X-ray Computed Tomography is integrated with field structures to unravel the Alpine deformation history Alpujárride Complex, which constitutes partially submerged metamorphic core Gibraltar Arc. Prograde metamorphism in complex has been traditionally linked a 'D1' event witnessed by garnet porphyroblasts. Orientation data for these microstructures reveal three age groups differently oriented axes inclusion-trail curvature (known as FIA). The successive development FIAs trending WNW-ESE, ENE-WSW and NNW-SSE shown correlated Paleogene-Neogene relative plate-motion paths Africa, Iberia Alborán Domain known from paleomagnetic data. During late-metamorphic evolution after growth had ceased, two steeply dipping crenulation cleavages associated folds roughly suborthogonal N–S E-W trends developed, addition subhorizontal ones. Inclusion are also found exhibit general preference subvertical orientations, suggesting protracted orogenic characterized multiple stress permutations causing alternations crustal shortening gravitational collapse.