The first description of Syktyvkar (former Ust-Sysolsk) was found in the chronicles of 1586. At that time there was a small church and churchyard there. In the 18th century Ust-Sysolsk developed into a big commercial and political center of the Komi Republic. Due to its geographical location it traded with St. Petersburg, Moscow, Siberia and some other parts of Russia.

By the decree of Catherine II of 1780 Ust-Sysolsk was transformed into the city and was incorporated into the Vologda province.

In 1921 the Ust-Sysolsk district was established. In March 1930 the city of Ust-Sysolsk was renamed to Syktyvkar. According to the constitution USSR, accepted in 1936 the independent area of Komi was transformed into Autonomous Soviet Socialistic Republic of Komi, and the city of Syktyvkar became its capital.

At present Syktyvkar is a capital of the Komi Republic and an important administrative, cultural and industrial center.