New stratigraphic data from the Lower Penninic between the Adula nappe and the Gotthard massif and consequences for the tectonics and the paleogeography of the Central Alps

► We introduce a new group of Triassic facies (North-Penninic-Triassic). ► Localised emersion occurred during Jurassic rifting in the distal European margin. ► The North Penninic Basin results from protracted extension during Jurassic rifting. ► The Adula nappe has a coherent Mesozoic cover: a “lithospheric mélange” is unlikely. ► Inversion of rift-related detachment allows the Penninic thrusting onto the margin.