Philosopher, theologian, poet, mystic. Born in Moscow (1853) in the family of historian Sergei Solovyov (1820–1879) and Polyxena Romanova (1828–1909). Attempted a synthesis of religious philosophy, science and ethics in the context of a universal Christianity, uniting the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches under papal leadership. Wrote poems and critical essays which made a major contribution to the development of Russian Symbolism. Taught at St Petersburg University and other educational establishments in the Russian capital. Died at the Troubetzkoy estate of Uzkoe near Moscow and buried at the Novodevichy Cemetery (1900).