Spanish history is rich and diverse, beginning with ancient civilizations like the Iberians and Celts. The Roman Empire later conquered the region, leaving a lasting impact on language and culture. After the fall of Rome, the Visigoths ruled until the Muslim conquest in the 8th century, which introduced new cultural influences. The Reconquista was a significant period when Christian kingdoms gradually reclaimed territory from Muslim rule, culminating in 1492 with the fall of Granada. This year also marked the beginning of Spain's global exploration, led by figures like Christopher Columbus, which established Spain as a major world power.