In Memoriam: Carme Barceló (1949–2024)

 The academic world and name researchers mourn the loss of Carme Barceló, a distinguished scholar and honorary professor at the University of Valencia, who passed away at the age of 75. Barceló's profound contributions to the study of toponymy and the onomastics of Andalusi Muslims have left an indelible mark on linguistic and historical scholarship.

Born in Cartagena in 1949, Carme Barceló devoted nearly her entire academic career to the University of Valencia, where she became the first elected dean of her faculty - a testament to her trailblazing spirit and dedication. As a professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies, she was widely regarded for her meticulous research on the language, epigraphy, and onomastic traditions of Andalusi Muslims, particularly within the Valencian region. Her pioneering work bridged the disciplines of linguistics, history, and cultural studies, offering insights that continue to inspire scholars worldwide.

Barceló's scholarly achievements include seminal works such as Toponímia arábica del País Valencià: alqueries i castells (1983), Minorías islámicas en el País Valenciano (1984), and Noms aràbics de lloc (2010). These publications, marked by scientific rigor, not only expanded the understanding of Arabic and medieval toponymy but also positioned her as a successor to the intellectual tradition of Miguel Asín Palacios. Her research illuminated the historical and linguistic landscapes of the Valencian region, particularly through the lens of Arabic place names and their enduring legacy.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Barceló was an active member of key linguistic and cultural institutions. She served as an academician of the Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua and contributed to its sections on Onomastics, Lexicography, and Grammar. Despite stepping down in 2003 due to health reasons, her influence within the institution remained significant. Barceló also held membership in the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, further reflecting her dedication to the study and preservation of Catalan and Valencian linguistic heritage.

Her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from colleagues and institutions alike. The Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua expressed its profound condolences, honoring her as a cherished friend and colleague. Her work remains a touchstone for those exploring the intersections of language, history, and identity.

Carme Barceló's legacy endures in the vast body of knowledge she has left behind and in the countless lives she touched as a mentor and scholar. Her contributions to onomastics, particularly the study of Arabic and medieval toponymy, will continue to shape the field for generations.

Rest in peace, Carme Barceló. May the earth lie gently upon you.