The origins of Christianity can be traced back to the 1st century CE in the region of Judea, part of the Roman Empire. It began as a movement within Judaism, centered around the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, who is considered the central figure of the faith. His followers believed him to be the Messiah and the Son of God, and they spread his teachings after his crucifixion. The early Christians formed communities and shared their beliefs, which emphasized love, forgiveness, and salvation. Key figures like Paul of Tarsus played a significant role in spreading the message beyond Jewish communities, leading to the establishment of Christianity as a distinct religion.