Maria of Chernigov

Maria Mikhailovna of Chernigov (1212-1271), was a historian, a Princess of Rostov by marriage to Prince Vasilko Konstantinovich of Rostov, and regent of Rostov during the minority of her son Prince Boris Vasilkovich of Rostov.

Both her father and her husband were killed by the forces of Batu Khan. She was the daughter of Prince Saint Michael of Chernigov. In 1238, her spouse died in the Battle of the River Sit against Batu Khan during the Mongol invasion. She became regent and guardian of her son Boris during his minority. She is described as well educated and a wise regent.

She is best known for her work as an author and historian, who commissioned - and possibly assisted in writing - works chronicling contemporary events and people. Her chronicle is an invaluable source about 13th-century Rostov and Rus' as a whole.