Cat Museum
Introduction
The Cat Museum in Minsk, Belarus is a charming feline‑themed destination nestled at Internacyjanalnaja Street 23, just a short walk from the Oktyabrskaya metro station. This inviting venue blends art, animal welfare and relaxation into a unique experience for visitors. Whether you love cats, art or simply wish to support a heartwarming cause, a trip to the Cat Museum offers something special in the heart of Minsk.
About the Museum
The Cat Museum operates from Tuesday through Sunday, typically from 11:00 in the morning until 20:00 in the evening, and is closed on Mondays. As both an exhibition space and a cat rescue centre, it showcases a permanent collection of cat‑themed artworks—including paintings, graphics, sculptures, photographs and decorative items created by both Belarusian and international artists. The museum also hosts temporary thematic exhibitions from time to time.
Among its most distinctive features, the museum is home to a dozen or more cats—once homeless or rescued from the streets—which are now resident “staff members” after receiving veterinary care, sterilization and vaccinations. Visitors are welcome to interact with these friendly felines—stroking or playing with them in a respectful way—but picking them up is not permitted to ensure their well‑being.
There is also a cosy cat café area within the museum where guests can enjoy complimentary tea or coffee in a cat‑free zone. Additionally, there are dedicated areas where visitors—both children and adults—can draw cats, play cat‑themed games such as cat‑chess or cat‑checkers, and display their own doodles on museum walls.
Proceeds from admission support the care of the resident cats and the broader rescue mission. The museum also maintains a catalogue of cats available for adoption—visitors may choose to give a rescued cat a loving home.
Interesting Facts
- The museum opened in 2015, with its inaugural exhibition titled Cats in the City featuring artworks by local and international artists.
- Its resident feline “director” is a rescue cat named Donut, along with other staff cats who now live and work at the museum.
- Visitors typically encounter more than fifteen cats roaming the rooms, each with a distinct personality and happy to receive affectionate attention.
- Admission includes free tea or coffee, and guests often spend around two hours enjoying both cat company and artwork on display.
- Since its opening, the museum’s volunteers have rescued and cared for hundreds of stray cats, many of which have been adopted into new homes.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +37529 642 3183
Website: catmuseum.by/index_en.html
Facebook: facebook.com/catmuseumby
Conclusion
The Cat Museum in Minsk offers a truly unique and heartwarming experience for visitors. It combines the joy of interacting with rescued cats, the creativity of feline‑inspired artworks, and the satisfaction of supporting animal welfare. Whether you are a passionate cat lover, an art enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a relaxing and meaningful way to spend time in Minsk, the museum provides a welcoming escape. Every visit supports the wellbeing of the resident cats and helps extend kindness to homeless animals in the city. A visit here is not just a museum trip—it is a delightful, caring experience that stays with you long after you leave.
