The Big Bench Community Project is a non-profit initiative aimed at supporting local tourism and craftsmanship in Italian communities.
Designer Chris Bangle, known for his work in the automotive industry, launched the project in 2010 on a hill in Clavesana.
The bench is numbered #23, serving as a specific registry item within the official Big Bench Community Project map.
Neive is renowned for its four major wines: Barbaresco, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Moscato d'Asti.
The bench is designed to offer a panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont.
Each bench location is maintained by local volunteers rather than central government entities.
Big Bench #23 is part of the Big Bench Community Project, a series of oversized installations created by designer Chris Bangle located throughout the Italian landscape. It is situated in the town of Neive, a village recognized as one of the 'Borghi più belli d'Italia' in the Langhe region. The structure is painted in distinct colors to represent the local agricultural identity and offers an elevated perspective over the surrounding vineyards. It is constructed from wood and steel, scaled to make adult visitors feel like small children. The location serves as a point of interest for hikers and cyclists exploring the Piedmontese wine country. Visitors reach the bench via agricultural trails accessible from the town center.
Directly in front of the bench to capture the scale against the backdrop of the Langhe hills.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the final approach is typically on unpaved vineyard paths.
Bring a water bottle, as there are no amenities or vendors located directly at the bench site.
Download the 'Tabui' app or the official Big Bench app to collect digital stamps if you are participating in the Big Bench passport program.
Attempting to drive a standard passenger car directly up to the bench via narrow dirt farm roads.
Do not leave litter; ensure the surrounding vineyard tracks remain clear of personal belongings.
