Why were the Spanish and Portuguese so interested in finding new ways to get to Asia?

Answer 1

The Spanish and Portuguese were interested in finding new ways to get to Asia because they wanted to establish direct trade routes with Asia in order to access valuable goods such as spices, silk, and precious metals. These goods were highly sought after in Europe and could be sold at a high profit, making trade with Asia a lucrative endeavor for European powers. Additionally, the Spanish and Portuguese were motivated by a desire to spread Christianity to new regions and convert people to the Catholic faith.