The construction project that connected the Mediterranean and Red Seas in ancient Egypt was the Suez Canal. Although the canal as we know it today was constructed in the 19th century, ancient Egyptian engineers first attempted similar projects as early as 2000 BCE, creating a series of channels and waterways to facilitate trade and transportation. The most notable ancient endeavor was the transport canal under Pharaoh Necho II and later explored further by Darius I of Persia. The strategic importance of such connections has been a vital aspect of Egypt's economy and trade routes throughout history.