Focus on Internal Issues: During the Middle Ages, Europe faced many internal challenges, including political conflicts, religious strife, and invasions. European leaders were preoccupied with maintaining stability and defending their territories, which left little time and resources for exploration.
Lack of Advanced Navigation Techniques: The technology for long-distance sea travel was still developing in the Middle Ages. Compasses and astrolabes were not widely available, and map-making was not precise. Navigating the vast oceans without these tools was extremely difficult, making long-distance exploration hazardous.
Limited Economic Incentives: The economic incentives for exploration were limited during the Middle Ages. While trade existed with other regions, it was primarily confined to the Mediterranean Sea and neighboring areas. Precious metals and spices were available from these regions, reducing the need for exploring new lands.
Religious Beliefs and Superstitions: The worldview of many Europeans during the Middle Ages was heavily influenced by religious beliefs and superstitions. Some feared that sailing too far into the ocean would lead them to the edge of the world or into dangerous unknown territory.
Dominance of the Islamic World: The Islamic world was dominant in trade and exploration during much of the Middle Ages. Muslim explorers and merchants controlled many trade routes and possessed superior navigational skills. This dominance limited European opportunities for long-distance exploration.
Rise of the Ottoman Empire: The rise of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century further restricted European exploration. The Ottomans expanded their control over much of the Mediterranean Sea, making it difficult and dangerous for Europeans to travel to distant destinations.
It wasn't until the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance that European leaders and explorers began to overcome these obstacles, eventually leading to the Age of Exploration and the rise of European global dominance.