Few open areas in Reykjavik occupy a more solid place in the hearts of the city's inhabitants than Tjörnin and its immediate surroundings, Hljómskálagarðurinn and Vatnsmýrin, where nature and human life meet in the middle of a metropolis in a unique way. At the northern end of the Pond, urbanization began in Reykjavík in the 18th century and since then the Pond has been a centrepiece in Reykjavik and an important area for outdoor activities and games. For a capital that is mostly surrounded by sea, it is unique to have such a large freshwater lake in the centre of the city. The rich lakeside ecosystem, especially the multifaceted birdlife, is a major attraction for the city's population. Efforts have been made to foster the welfare of birdlife with the protection of the wetland in Vatnsmýri south of Hringbraut, where there is now a nature reserve for birds that the city of Reykjavik stands in collaboration with the University of Iceland and the Nordic House. The orchard park at Suðurtjörn has larger public parks in Reykjavik. It owes its name to the Sound Theater, which was founded in 1923 and has long been the practice site of smoke-drumming trumpets. A number of smaller public parks are in the vicinity of the pond e.g. Hallargarðurinn park, Mæðragarðurinn park and Austurvöllur. There are many interesting buildings nearby including The Reykjavik City Hall, the Ministerial Residence at Tjarnargata, Idnó, Fríkirkjan church and the National Gallery of Iceland (Listasafn Íslands).