The giant benches – Big Bench in Tuscany

If you are tired of the usual attractions and fancy seeing something different, you cannot miss the colourful giant benches of the world circuit Big Bench Community Project (BBCP), the non-profit initiative promoted by US designer Chris Bangle and his wife Catherine to support local communities, tourism and artisan excellence.

But what are giant benches? They are outsized installations (approximately 2.5 metres high and 3 metres long) placed in particularly scenic locations in nature from which one can enjoy beautiful views. The large size of the benches make those who sit on them feel like children. Easily accessible via short paths, these benches offer a unique experience that literally leaves one speechless. The first big bench was installed in 2010 by Chris Bangle on the grounds of the Borgata in Clavesana, in the province of Cuneo, but since then time has passed and the big benches have now crossed the peaceful borders of Piedmont and spread throughout Italy.

Of the more than 160 benches placed so far, seven are in Tuscany. The first big bench in Tuscany (number 55 in the world) was inaugurated in 2019 at the top of the Monti promontory in Careggine, the smallest municipality in Garfagnana, from which one can enjoy the wonderful panorama of the Apuan Alps. The second bench in Tuscany (number 109) was installed in one of the most beautiful panoramic spots in the city of Pietrasanta, renamed ‘Little Athens’ for its excellent cultural and artistic heritage. Positioned on the belvedere of the Rocca di Sala, it was the first to overlook the sea. In 2020, one was placed (number 111) in the province of Arezzo, along the unpaved road that connects the medieval village of Castiglion Fibocchi with the small hamlet of Gello Biscardo, from which, on fine days, it is even possible to see Lake Trasimeno. The first giant bench in Chianti (number 136) was instead placed in 2021 in Gaiole in Chianti, on a gentle hill overlooking a 13th century castle and the vineyards of Meleto.

Another big bench (number 150) is located in the small and beautiful gulf of Calamoresca in Piombino, in a suggestive place that offers a truly enchanting view. The bench is placed on the part of the promontory that is part of the Punta Falcone Park, from which the Via dei Cavalleggeri starts, a nature walk through millenary history. The sixth bench (number 153) was installed in a highly scenic location, not far from the picturesque village of Groppo San Pietro, in the municipality of Comano, in the province of Massa-Carrara. Nicknamed the ‘Big Bench of the Sky’, it offers a varied view ranging from the Ligurian Mountains to the sea of the Gulf of Poets. Finally, the last giant bench in Tuscany (number 160) is located at Terrinca in the municipality of Stazzema, in one of the most fascinating spots of the Apuan Alps. Located in Passo Croce, it overlooks one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region, characterised by numerous sites of high naturalistic and landscape value.

For more information visit the official website of Big Bench Community Project.

Photo © Visit Tuscany