Few people are aware of Reykjavik's connection with punk in the 70s (through the 90s); a connection so strong that it deserved to have its own little museum. Housed within a former underground public toilet in the city, this museum was inaugurated by none other than lead singer of British punk band the Sex Pistols, Johnny Rotten. It narrates stories of these eventful decades through a series of interesting memorabilia, from instruments to old photographs and posters. Visitors can also listen to punk classics through old-timey, pull-down headphones.
An enduring landmark which dates from 1926, Gamla Bíó is a longstanding fixture seamlessly woven into Reykjavík's cultural tapestry. The structure presents an evocative exterior, its commanding design adhering to a classical architectural style. One of the most prominent cultural venues in the city, Gamla Bíó was built on the behest of Peter Petersen and served as a center of cinematic and operatic splendor in the 1930s and 1980s, respectively. While the focus today lies on more contemporary performances and concerts, the landmark has, nevertheless, retained its historical and classical grandeur and continues to awe all those who venture past its threshold.