Irene of Athens: Empress, Iconoclast Conqueror, and Saint

Irene of Athens (c. 752 – August 9, 803), also known as Irene Sarantapechaena, remains a captivating figure in Byzantine history. Rising from Athenian nobility to become the first woman to reign independently over the Eastern Roman Empire, her legacy is marked by political intrigue, religious controversy, and ultimately, the restoration of icons. However, her path to sainthood was paved with complex decisions and contested power struggles.