KattenKabinet: The Museum of Feline Art in Amsterdam

The building at Herengracht 497, which now houses the KattenKabinet, was constructed in 1667 for the patrician brothers Willem and Adriaen van Loon, along with the adjacent building at Herengracht 499.

Following its construction in 1667, Willem van Loon acquired ownership of the house at Herengracht 497 through a draw with his brother Adriaen, establishing its initial private ownership within the family.

Over time, the house at Herengracht 497 was inhabited by prominent figures such as Amsterdam mayor Jan Calkoen and pensionary Engelbert François van Berckel, highlighting its historical significance as a residence for local leaders.

During his tenure as U.S. ambassador to the Dutch Republic, John Adams visited Engelbert François van Berckel at the house, highlighting its historical role in diplomatic and political interactions in the late 18th century.

The historical building at Herengracht 497, which would later house the KattenKabinet, underwent a significant restoration process in 1985, ensuring its preservation prior to its transformation into a museum.

The KattenKabinet museum was founded in 1990 by Bob Meijer, establishing an institution dedicated to art depicting cats. It was created in memory of his beloved red tomcat, John Pierpont Morgan, who was named after the American banker J. P. Morgan.

In 2004, the KattenKabinet gained wider recognition by serving as a filming location for the Hollywood movie Ocean's Twelve, showcasing its unique interior and adding a notable cultural event to its history.

The building housing the KattenKabinet has been formally designated as a Dutch Rijksmonument (national heritage site), recognizing its architectural and historical value as monument number 1662.