Sviatoslav I, Prince of Kiev

Sviatoslav I reigned as a Varangian prince of Kiev from 945, transferring his capital to Pereyaslavets in 969. His mother Olga of Kiev ruled as regent until his majority (c.963). Until his death in 972 Sviatoslav rejected the Christianity embraced by Olga. He was known as a warrior Prince and spent most of his reign campaigning against nearby tribes. His unorthodx appearance was noted by the Byzantines who described him as having shaved one side of his head, and having a single large gold earring. He divided his territories among his sons Yaropolk and Oleg, and the illegitimate Vladimir. Sviatoslav was killed in battle with the Pechnegs in 972

Preceded by: Olga

Rulers of Kievan Rus

Succeeded by: Yaropolk