Analogue modelling contributes to the interpretation of lithosphere scale folds in Iberia as a result of largescale
convergence during Oligocene-Miocene times between the Iberian and European Plates. Different tectonothermal
events affected the microplate since late Paleozoic and resulted in lateral strength variations of the Iberian
lithosphere. An old and cold lithosphere, Variscan in age, can be found in the westernmost part of Iberia whereas
a relative weak and hot Mesozoic lithosphere affected by episodes of rifting and basin inversion during Mesozoic-
Tertiary times covers the area of the Iberian Chain. Our study aims at deciphering whether deformation and
topography evolution in Iberia are related to lateral strength variations and/or the inherited structural grain stemming
from Variscan deformation. We also have studied the strength of the lithosphere to gain insights into the effects of
rheological variations related to local thrusting or primary strength variations along the Iberian lithosphere