Rastislav of Moravia was a 9th-century ruler known for his significant role in the establishment of the Great Moravian Empire. He became the prince of Moravia around 846 and is credited with promoting Christianity in the region. His reign marked a period of cultural and political development, as he sought to strengthen Moravia's independence from neighboring powers. Rastislav is particularly noted for inviting the Byzantine brothers Cyril and Methodius to spread Christianity and create a written system for the Slavic people. This led to the development of the Glagolitic alphabet, which was crucial for the literacy and cultural identity of the Slavic nations.