Orlov family

Coat of arms of Princes Orlov
Catherine the Great's charter of creation of the title of Count Orlov, 1763

The House of Orlov (Russian: Орлóв) is the name of a Russian noble family which produced several distinguished statesmen, scientists, diplomats, and soldiers. The family first gained distinction in the 18th century through the achievements of five Orlov brothers, of whom the second eldest was Catherine the Great's paramour, and two younger brothers were notable military commanders.