Which country initially owned the land where the Canal would be built?

The land where the Suez Canal would be built was initially owned by Egypt. The canal project was spearheaded by French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps, and construction began in 1859. Although Egypt was under Ottoman rule at the time, the local administration and the Egyptian government were involved in the project. Ultimately, the canal was completed and opened in 1869, becoming a vital maritime route.