General Notes

She became regent of the grand principality of Kiev (after her husband died), in the period 945-955, until her son reached majority. She hunted down Igor's murderers and had them scalded to death.  In about 955 to 957 she became an Orthodox Christian and shortly afterwards ushered in the new era in Byzantine-Kievian relations by visiting Constantinople.  There she was baptized, or rebaptized, taking as her Christian name, "Helena", in honor of the Byzantine empress.  It was through her efforts and those of her grandson Vladimir that Christianity was brought to Russia.  she was canonized by the orthodox Church.  (Internet)