Irene of Athens was a Byzantine empress who ruled from 797 to 802 AD. She was born around 752 and became the first woman to hold the title of empress in her own right. Irene initially served as regent for her son, Constantine VI, but later deposed him to take full control of the empire. Irene is known for her efforts to restore the veneration of icons during the Iconoclast Controversy, a significant religious dispute in the Byzantine Empire. Her reign was marked by political intrigue and conflict, but she is often remembered for her role in promoting religious unity within the empire.