Fig. 1

a Structural and geographic framework of Iran showing the main sutures, structural units and geographic areas. b Locality map of east-central Iran with major structural units (blocks and block-bounding faults modified from Wilmsen et al. 2009a; Palaeotethys suture modified from Sengör et al. 1988). Previously measured sections are indicated by asterisks; new sections by rectangles. A. Ravar–Abkuh, B. Zarand–Chenaruyeh, C. Zarand–Eshkeli, D. Kuh-e-Rahdar, E. Simin-Sepahan, F. Parvadeh, G. Kuh-e-Shisui. The red line (A–B–C) marks the lithostratigraphic NW–SE cross section of Figs. 10 and 12