Economic: Spain sought new sources of wealth and riches to expand its economy. The discovery of new lands and trade routes offered the opportunity to acquire valuable resources such as gold, silver, spices, and other exotic goods. Exploration also provided access to new markets for Spanish products.
Religious: The Spanish monarchs were devout Catholics, and they saw exploration as a way to spread Christianity to new lands. They believed that converting indigenous populations to Catholicism was their religious duty and would bring glory to both the Spanish crown and the Catholic Church.
Political: Exploration and colonization allowed Spain to expand its territories and increase its power and prestige in the world. By establishing colonies and claiming new lands, the Spanish monarchs could assert their dominance over other European powers and secure their geopolitical interests.
Adventure and Curiosity: The Age of Exploration was also driven by a spirit of adventure and curiosity. Many explorers were fascinated by the unknown and eager to discover new lands, explore different cultures, and learn about the world's geography. The monarchs supported these expeditions not only for practical reasons but also to satisfy their own desire for knowledge and exploration.