Archaeologists excavate the site of Laugavegur 1 in central Reykjavík after the building is demolished ahead of a planned reconstruction in its original form. The structure is described as one of the city’s oldest timber houses, first built in 1848. Following demolition, investigators examine archaeological remains at the site, including remains dated to the 19th century that are found beneath the property. Officials say the goal of the work is to inform how the reconstruction proceeds. The plan is to rebuild the house using as much of the original material as possible, based on findings from the excavation and any related assessments. The reporting indicates that the reconstruction is intended to restore the building’s earlier layout and character rather than replace it with a modern structure. The excavation is ongoing as part of the process to document and study the remains before reconstruction work continues.