Red Sea

The Red Sea has been known since ancient times and was not "discovered" in the modern sense, as it has been used for trade and navigation for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, for instance, referenced the Red Sea in their texts as early as 1500 BCE. Its significance in maritime routes continued throughout history, notably during the time of the Phoenicians and later the Romans. Thus, it has been recognized and utilized by various civilizations long before the term "discovery" was applied in a contemporary context.

The Red Sea is not unique in its buoyancy properties; you cannot sink in it primarily due to its high salinity. The increased salt concentration makes the water denser than freshwater, allowing for greater buoyancy. This means that, similar to other saltwater bodies, people and objects are more likely to float. However, it's important to remember that while you may not sink, swimming in such water still requires caution due to currents and other factors.

The canal that connects the Red Sea and the Nile, known as the Suez Canal, was constructed during the time of the Kingdom of Egypt. The ancient canal, often referred to as the "Canal of the Pharaohs," was built in various forms throughout Egyptian history, with significant enhancements made during the reign of Pharaoh Necho II and later by Darius I of Persia. The modern Suez Canal, as we know it today, was completed in 1869 under the governance of Egypt, although it was developed by French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps.

The Suez Canal links the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a man-made waterway located in Egypt, facilitating maritime trade by allowing ships to travel between Europe and Asia without having to navigate around Africa. The canal significantly shortens the journey for vessels, enhancing global shipping efficiency.