Part of the 'Big Bench Community Project' (BBCP), a non-profit initiative to support local communities and tourism.
Designed by American designer Chris Bangle, who has lived in the area since the mid-1990s.
The bench is built at a scale that makes adults feel like children, intentionally altering the user's physical interaction with the landscape.
There are over 300 similar 'Big Benches' across Italy, but this specific red one is among the most photographed in the Barolo region.
The project is funded by private donations and local partnerships, remaining free to the public.
The bench dimensions are calculated to provide a specific seating experience that accommodates the height of the platform.
It is specifically positioned to offer an unobstructed line of sight toward the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscapes.
The Panchina Gigante Rossa is a large-scale artistic bench located in the heart of the Langhe wine region in Piedmont, Italy. It is part of the Big Bench Community Project, an initiative created by American designer Chris Bangle to promote local tourism and craftsmanship. The structure is painted a vibrant red, contrasting with the surrounding rolling hills and terraced vineyards. It is elevated above the terrain, requiring visitors to climb onto it to sit, effectively shifting their perspective of the landscape. The bench offers panoramic views of La Morra and the surrounding Barolo wine estates. It serves as a social landmark rather than a functional piece of park furniture. The site is maintained through local community efforts and is situated on land accessible to the public. The location is open-air and exposed to regional weather conditions.
From the vineyard path directly in front of the bench to capture the scale of the structure against the sprawling valley background.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain surrounding the bench can be uneven or muddy after rainfall.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is zero shade once you reach the bench area.
Carry your 'Big Bench Passport' if you are collecting stamps from the various locations in the region.
Do not park vehicles in narrow farm lanes that block access for local agricultural tractors and harvesters.
Be mindful of private vineyard property lines; stick to marked paths. Do not attempt to carve names or graffiti into the wooden structure.
