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Empress Irene
Empress Irene (c. 752-803) was the first woman to secure the role of Byzantine Emperor for herself, not as a regent. Irene initially rose to the throne through her marriage to the future emperor, Leo IV (r. 775-780), and when her son Constantine VI (r. 780-797) became emperor, Irene assumed regency for her son. With her great skills of political maneuvering and diplomacy, Irene had to create elaborate plans in order to find herself as the sole ruler in 797. Beyond her many schemes to become ruler of the Byzantine Empire, Irene is often known for her restoration of Christian icons that were removed from popular culture by her royal predecessors. Irene’s legacy lies in her diplomacy, cultural shifts, and her role as one of the very few women to rule the Byzantine empire.
A gold coin depicting Byzantine empress Irene. Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, Rome.
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