Its unique character developed as a result of its geography at the confluence of various European regions. It is theorized and speculated that ethnic Poles and the other Lechites (Kashubians and Silesians) are the combination of descendants of West Slavs and people indigenous to the region including Celts, Balts and Germanic tribes which were gradually Polonized after Poland's Christianization by the Catholic Church in the 10th century. Over time Polish culture has been profoundly influenced by its interweaving ties with the Germanic, Hungarian, Latinate and to a lesser extent; Byzantine and Ottoman cultures as well as in continual dialog with the many other ethnic groups and minorities living in Poland.