Abandoned Berlin

The city is a hotspot of urban exploration, a subculture in which practitioners trespass and document these neglected places. Following their footprints, this research studies urban exploration from a heritage perspective, analysing different sensibilities, narrative creations, and approaches to conservation. In addition, three main threats for abandoned buildings were identified: touristification, commodification, and gentrification. By critically engaging with these aspects, it is suggested that the hope for these buildings lie on prioritizing public participation and slow urban development, where minimal interventions contribute to preserve Berlin’s unique aesthetics.