The Museum of the History of Enlightenment of the Komi Region was founded in 1982 as the Museum of the History of Syktyvkar State University. Initially, it was located in a small room of 15 sq. m. Its founder and first director was M.I. Burlykina, a Doctor of Cultural Studies and Professor.

In 1991, the museum became an official division of the university, although it had previously operated on a voluntary basis. In 1992, it received a new name, the Museum of the History of Enlightenment of the Komi Region, where enlightenment is viewed as the unity of science, culture, and education.

In May 1994, the museum opened its doors to visitors. Its exhibition space expanded to 500 sq. m, a new scientific concept and artistic-exhibition project were developed, and the diversity of activities increased. In 2002, the museum was awarded the State Prize of the Republic of Komi.

Today, the museum's exhibition showcases the stages of development of science, culture, and education in the Komi region, as well as the history of the university. The collection includes archival materials about the creation and activities of the university, personal collections of teachers and scholars containing photographs, documents, and memories, as well as thematic collections with items of ethnography, painting, graphics, and sculpture.

The museum regularly hosts exhibitions, performances by creative groups, and significant events.