Solvychegodsk’s name is derived from the Russian for ‘salt’ (‘sol’) and the name of the river on which it stands (the Vychegda). The production of salt played an important role in the history of the city as the Stroganov family opened salterns here in the 16th century and developed a thriving industry which in turn established the Stroganovs as one of the most successful industrial dynasties of the Russian Empire. 

Due to its relatively remote location, many old churches and other buildings have survived and for such, the city has been award Historical City status. However this does not make it the easiest place to visit. The closest railway station is located 30km away in Kotlas.