Why did Spain want to conquer the Aztecs?

Spain sought to conquer the Aztecs primarily for wealth, territory, and the spread of Christianity. The Aztec Empire was rich in gold and silver, which attracted Spanish conquistadors like Hernán Cortés. Additionally, Spain aimed to expand its influence and convert indigenous populations to Christianity, viewing this as both a religious duty and a means to legitimize their conquests. The combination of economic motives and religious zeal drove their desire to subjugate the Aztec civilization.