Why did the spanish set up colonies in the new world

Are there some options? A more general reply would be: they hoped to get rich. Specifically, they hoped to be able to explore the mineral riches of the land (they hoped for Gold), and then they hoped to make money off the agriculture and other activities in the lad.

Additionally, it was adding to their prestige internationally to increase their territory by establishing colonies.

1.  go out into nature and commune with the divine2.  experience real solitude to truly perceive nature3.  realize that individuals are meant to learn from nature and transcend it4.  think of nature as a symbol of the divine