The History of Canals

A guided map tour of both the Suez & Panama Canals to highlight the importance of its creation

Alex Dobbins

In the year 1869, the Suez Canal was completed, and completely reshaped global trade routes the way we see it today.

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The Suez Canal is the gateway between the East and the West, moving products all around the world. In March 2021, it made headlines when the Ever Given ship became wedged in its midst, preventing ships from passing through for six days and causing history's costliest traffic jam.

Panama Canal

The Panama Canal Time Lapsed in HD

Colón, Panama

Gatun Lake

Culebra Cut

Pacific Entrance

Colón, Panama

The Atlantic Entrance is the northern entrance to the Panama Canal. It is located on the Caribbean Sea, near the city of Colón. The Atlantic Entrance is home to the Gatun Locks, which lift ships up to Gatun Lake.

Gatun Lake

Gatun Lake is a man-made lake that is located at the heart of the Panama Canal. It is the largest lake in Panama and is home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, and monkeys. Ships travel through Gatun Lake on their way from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans.

Culebra Cut

The Culebra Cut is the narrowest and deepest section of the Panama Canal. It is located in the center of the canal and is home to the Pedro Miguel Locks and the Miraflores Locks. The Culebra Cut was one of the most difficult sections of the canal to build, and it required the excavation of millions of cubic meters of earth and rock.

Pacific Entrance

Located near the city of Balboa, The Pacific Entrance is the southern entrance to the Panama Canal. It is located on the Pacific Ocean, near the city of Panama City. The Pacific Entrance is home to the Miraflores Locks, which lower ships down to sea level.