Abstract
The case of South Tyrol shows that the problem of topographic signs represents more than just a marginal issue of minority protection. In the context of specific historical an political circumstances, the use of place names in the minority language has to be seen as an important symbol.
Who "owns" the territory, also has the power to name it. From a historical perspective, South Tyrol serves as an example for the brutal suppression of a national minority.
On the other hand, South Tyrol is today presented as a succesful model of autonomy for the benefit of all ethnic groups. Bilingual topographic signs in German and Italian (and partly also in Ladin) languages are one of the most visible symbols of this autonomy.