The Agnietenkapel is the official birthplace of the University of Amsterdam. The Athenaeum Illustre, predecessor to the current University of Amsterdam, was opened in the Agnietenkapel in 1632.

The Agnietenkapel and adjacent Purperhoedenveem underwent a major renovation. The design was created by Braaksma & Roos Architectenbureau. Purperhoedenveem was structurally integrated into the chapel. The historic ceiling frescoes and the stained glass windows were restored, and the chapel was assigned a new function.

Since its official reopening by Mayor Job Cohen in February 2007, the building has served as a location for official UvA ceremonies, such as the conferral of doctorates, small conferences and farewell lectures.