he Zumaia section, the most complete and representative section of the early Palaeogene (hemi)-pelagic succession of the Pyrenees, is widely acknowledged as a key reference for the Palaeocene-Eocene boundary. New high-resolution δ 13C org of the Zumaia section (-23.8 to -28.8‰) confirms the position of the Carbon Isotope Excursion and enhances the distinction between the different steps of the CIE/PETM event. According to new magnetic susceptibility data and detailed cycle counting, the entire duration of the CIE/PETM in Zumaia is estimated in ∼168±16ka. Moreover, the investigation of palynofacies and low-field magnetic susceptibility reveal significant detrital influx during the interval. Several magnetic susceptibility phases and trends are recognised and are interpreted in terms of sea-level fluctuations before, during and after the PETM. Coupled with results from other sections, our data reveal the presence of an unconformity followed by an eustatic sea-level rise (TST) in the latest Palaeocene. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.