Olga of Kyiv, the first female ruler of the Rus, was a leader unlike any other. Best remembered for her ruthless revenge against the Derevlians-the tribe that murdered her husband-Olga's calculated brutality secured her grip on power and cemented her legend. Yet she was more than just a warrior queen. Her rule reshaped the Rus, introducing political and administrative reforms that strengthened the state, centralised governance, and fortified cities. She established a structured tribute system, secured key alliances with Constantinople, and laid the foundation for the Christianisation of the Rus. Her infamous Siege of Iskorosten showcased her mastery of psychological warfare, proving that her mind was as sharp as any blade. A ruler of vision, resilience, and contradiction, Olga's legacy shaped Eastern Europe and paved the way for the rise of one of the most powerful medieval states. AUTHOR: Abigail Williams is a graduate of the University of Nottingham with a degree in Russian Language and History. Her academic focus on medieval Rus and religious studies has fueled a lifelong fascination with the region's history. Having travelled extensively in Russia for both study and exploration, she developed a particular fondness for Saint Petersburg, where she spent much of 2019 wandering the halls of the Winter Palace. A firm believer that no visit to Russia is complete without trying Medovik, she is always eager to share her passion for Eastern European history and culture.
