Boris Iofan

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Boris Mihajlovic Iofan (April 28, 1891–1976) was one of a trio of Russian architects who designed the magnificent Palace of Soviets (the other two architects were Vladimir Gelfreikh and Vladimir Shchuko). Their design was awarded a gold medal during the 1937 International Exposition dedicated to Art and Technology in Modern Life.

The Church of Christ the Savior, a monument initiated by Alexander I (and consecrated by Alexander III), was razed for construction of the palace. In 1958, the Moscow Swimming Pool was erected at the site, after construction of the palace was abandoned. This open-air pool was eventually shut down and the cathedral was rebuilt at the same location in 1994-1995.

Iofan graduated in 1916 from Rome, Italy's Regio Istituto Superiore di Belle Arti, with a degree in architecture.