Saint Rostislav, the great prince of Kiev, was the son of Saint Mstislav the Great and the brother of Saint Prince Vsevolod-Gabriel. He became a significant figure in strengthening Smolensk and its diocese, ruling for over 40 years. In 1125, he inherited Smolensk from his father and founded several cities, including Rostislavl and Mstislavl.
In 1136, Saint Rostislav achieved the establishment of the Smolensk diocese, the first bishop of which was Manuel. He was also known for his church construction, including the Assumption Cathedral in Smolensk. In 1150, he confirmed the transfer of the Smolensk cathedral to the Sobornaya Gora.
Saint Rostislav was involved in the struggle for Kiev, where his uncle Yuri Dolgoruky became the main contender for the principality. He became the great prince of Kiev for a short time after the death of his brother Iziaslav, but soon returned to Smolensk.
In 1159, he again took Kiev, remaining prince until his death in 1167. His reign coincided with a difficult period for the Russian Church, when disputes arose about the metropolitans. Saint Rostislav sought unity in the Church and supported Metropolitan Clement, despite the challenging circumstances.
Saint Rostislav died on March 14, 1167, and his body was buried in the Feodorovsky Monastery in Kiev, according to his will.
