On the relation between toponymy and syntax: Basque and Spanish place names based on relative clauses

Abstract

In this work I offer first an overview of what has been written on Basque relative-based toponyms, and then I talk about the structure and evolution of Basque Satznamen, especially about the ones consisting of a noun in absolutive singular, a verbal form, the relative marker –(e)n and the article. In the following section I comment on the structure and evolution of Romance Satznamen, starting with the first testimony that we know of (CE 1197). In the next point I deal with of the geographical distribution of Basque relative-toponyms and then I draw some outlines about the bases of Basque and Spanish Satznamen. Finally, I summarize the conclusions that I draw form the data and point out the future tasks.