Review of Polymetallic Mineralization in the Sila and Serre Massifs (Calabria, Southern Italy)

Abstract

We provide an updated overview of the known mineral deposits from the Sila and Serre Massifs in Calabria, contributing to setting their genesis within a complex geologic history, starting from the late-Carboniferous. We summarize the mineralization reported in the literature, with a critical review of the host tectonic units, by taking into account the upgrades in the knowledge of these areas. We also set them in updated geological maps and in stratigraphic columns, highlighting the crustal levels to which they pertain. Despite the geologic and minerogenetic similarities potentially existing with late- to post-Variscan mineral deposits from other regions (e.g., Sardinia and French Central Massif), the scientific literature on the Calabria mineralization is out-of-date and not exhaustive. Moreover, these ore deposits were likely considered not economically attractive enough to stimulate new scientific studies. However, in our opinion, such studies are needed to resolve the main open questions, which rely on deciphering the origin and age of mineralization. Finally, research for critical elements hosted by the Sila and Serre mineralization (e.g., In, Ge and Ga in sphalerites) is a possible interesting new perspective.