Berlin's Zehlendorf Forest Settlement vies for UNESCO World Heritage status

The Zehlendorf Forest Settlement in Berlin is vying for UNESCO World Heritage status. The application seeks to expand the existing "Berlin Modernism Housing Estates" World Heritage site, recognized in 2008. This existing site includes well-known estates like the Horseshoe Estate in Neukölln and the White Settlement in Reinickendorf.

The decision on the Zehlendorf settlement's inclusion is part of a broader UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting that began Sunday. The committee is considering over 30 new nominations. The agenda indicates a decision is expected by Monday morning, German time. Other notable nominations include the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy.

Built between 1926 and 1932, the Zehlendorf settlement is colloquially known as the "Parrot Settlement" due to its colorful facades. It stands out as the largest of the Berlin Modernism estates by area. A unique feature is its integrated shopping street within the Onkel Toms Hütte subway station, a pioneering concept at the time for connecting commerce directly to public transport. The settlement was once home to notable figures like actor Theo Lingen and SPD politician Julius Leber, who opposed the Nazi regime.