Merkur

Merkur, in Germanic languages, refers to the Roman god Mercury. He is the god of commerce, eloquence, communication, travelers, boundaries, luck, trickery and thieves; he also serves as the guide of souls to the underworld.

In astronomy, Merkur is the German and several other European languages' name for the planet Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system and the closest to the Sun.

The name is also used for various commercial enterprises and organizations, particularly in German-speaking countries, such as:

• Merkur (retail): A former large Austrian supermarket chain, now part of the Billa brand.
• Merkur Casino: A German-based international chain of casinos and gaming halls.
• Merkur (insurance): An Austrian insurance company.
• Merkur Bank: Several different financial institutions have borne this name.
• Merkur (newspapers/journals): The name of several periodicals, often focusing on business or current affairs.

The name is derived directly from the Latin "Mercurius", reflecting the planet's swift movement across the sky, mirroring the Roman god's role as a messenger.