Merksem (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈmɛr(ə)ksɛm]; former spelling: Merxem) is a district of the municipality and city of Antwerp in the Flemish Region of Belgium.

During that period the region was mentioned as Merk (border) and Heim (settlement) being part of the diocese Kamerijk.

Around the year 600, the Franks started colonizing the area near the local Saint-Bartholomew's Church, which was the highest point of Merksem at the time.

The current Bredabaan (Breda Road) functioned as a gate between Antwerp and cities located to the north.

Due to its ideal location, multiple industrial and commercial companies started to establish themselves in the area, contributing to the population increase.

[4] The Sportpaleis and the Lotto Arena are both located in the district of Merksem and host major sporting events, live music and festivals.