China was known to be a land of great wealth and prosperity. It was a producer of silk, spices, and other valuable goods that were highly sought after by European traders. A direct route to China would allow European explorers to bypass the middlemen who controlled the trade routes through the Middle East and Central Asia. This would give them access to cheaper goods and allow them to make a larger profit.
A route to China was also seen as a way to spread Christianity.
The Catholic Church was eager to expand its reach into new territories, and China was seen as a prime target for conversion. A direct route to China would make it easier for missionaries to travel to the country and spread their message.
A route to China was also seen as a way to gain political power and prestige.
The European powers were constantly competing for power and influence, and a direct route to China would give them a significant advantage. Whoever controlled the route to China would be able to control the flow of trade between Europe and the East, and this would give them a major economic and political advantage.
