Which 2018 Russian documentary TV series explores the life and historical impact of the 10th-century Prince of Kiev, known for Christianizing Kievan Rus'?

The 2018 Russian documentary TV series that delves into the life and historical impact of the 10th-century Prince of Kiev, renowned for Christianizing Kievan Rus', focuses on Vladimir. Grand Prince Vladimir Sviatoslavich, also known as Vladimir the Great (Review), ruled Kievan Rus' from 978 until his death in 1015, and his pivotal decision to adopt Orthodox Christianity in 988 profoundly shaped the future of the region.

Before his conversion, Vladimir (Review) was a pagan ruler who, according to historical accounts, even set up idols and practiced human sacrifice. However, he eventually sought a unifying faith for his diverse territories. After examining various religions, including Islam, Judaism, and Western Christianity, Vladimir’s envoys were reportedly awestruck by the splendor of the Byzantine Orthodox liturgy in Constantinople. His conversion was also influenced by a political alliance, as he married Anna, the sister of Byzantine Emperor Basil II, a condition for his military aid to the emperor.

Upon his return to Kiev, Vladimir ordered the mass baptism of his subjects in the Dnieper River, dismantling pagan monuments and establishing churches. This momentous event, often referred to as the Baptism of Rus', marked the official adoption of Orthodox Christianity as the state religion, a decision that linked Kievan Rus' culturally, economically, and politically with the Byzantine world. The Christianization under Vladimir laid the foundation (Review) for Russian spiritual traditions and cultural heritage that continues to influence the region to this day.