The 16th century, spanning from 1501 to 1600, was a period marked by significant changes in Europe and beyond. It was characterized by the Renaissance, a cultural movement that emphasized art, science, and humanism. This era also saw the rise of powerful monarchies and the beginning of the Age of Exploration, with explorers like Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan expanding European knowledge of the world. Additionally, the 16th century was notable for the Protestant Reformation, a religious movement that challenged the authority of the Catholic Church. Figures such as Martin Luther played crucial roles in this transformation, leading to the establishment of various Protestant denominations. The century laid the groundwork for modern Western society.