The Spanish Empire was renowned for its advancements in trade during the Age of Exploration, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries. Spain established extensive trade routes across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, linking Europe with the Americas and Asia. The empire's wealth was fueled by the extraction of precious metals, primarily gold and silver from the New World, which were transported back to Spain. This influx of resources significantly impacted European economies and fueled further colonization and exploration. Spain's trading practices also contributed to cultural exchanges, the spread of ideas, and the establishment of a global economy.