Right-believing Princes Basil and Constantine of Yaroslavl

Life and Rule

Basil, the elder brother, succeeded to the throne of Yaroslavl after the death of their father. His reign was burdened with concerns and sorrows, for the city and surrounding villages had been devastated by the Tatar invasion, leaving many households without shelter or food. To secure the good will of the Tatar Khan, the prince journeyed more than once to the Horde.

The synaxarion records that Basil bore his trials without complaint, ruled like a true Christian, avoided disputes with neighboring princes, cared for the unfortunate among his subjects, and built churches. He also suffered the loss of his only son. He died in 1249.

Constantine succeeded his elder brother and sought to follow his example, though he continued to witness the pillage and killing inflicted by the Tatars. In 1257 the Tatars fell upon Yaroslavl itself, and Constantine went out to fight; he gave up his life for his country in the battle. Historical accounts associate this engagement with a clash at Tugovaya Gora, a hill outside Yaroslavl, after which the city was devastated by the Golden Horde.

Relics & Shrines

The incorrupt relics of the holy princes were uncovered in the year 1501 and came to rest in the cathedral at Yaroslavl. By historical accounts the discovery followed a fire in the city's principal cathedral.

Later sources relate that in 1744 a fire damaged the shrine in which the relics were kept; the portions that could be recovered are preserved in the same cathedral.

Miracles & Traditions

Historically Documented: The relics of Saints Basil and Constantine were uncovered in 1501 and are described as incorrupt; their finding is commemorated liturgically on June 8.

Traditional Accounts: The veneration of the two brothers as right-believing princes rests on the tradition that they governed their afflicted people faithfully under the Mongol yoke and that Constantine died defending Yaroslavl.