Final answer:
Christopher Columbus wanted to explore to find new trade routes, spread Christianity, and acquire wealth, encouraged by European monarchs fascinated with the promises of riches and new lands, as well as spreading the Christian faith.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely reason Columbus wanted to explore was a combination of seeking new trade routes, spreading Christianity, and acquiring wealth. Based on the information provided, sea voyages like the ones Columbus undertook were motivated by various factors such as the collapse of overland routes, the danger of travel due to plagues, and the desire to establish faster and more profitable trade routes to Asia.
Spain and Portugal, among other European nations during the Age of Discovery, were also looking to grow rich and spread Christianity, counter the influence of Islam, and establish new territories for their global influence. Columbus's claims about the potential for wealth in the 'New World,' such as descriptions of fertile lands and harbors in Hispaniola stocked with gold, furthered thier excitement and support for exploration.