Giant Benches in Monferrato

A tour of the 5 most picturesque ones

The first Big Benches appeared in Clavesana, a charming village in the province of Cuneo, where Chris Bangle settled. Since then, these surprising installations have spread across many towns in the Langhe and Monferrato, eventually reaching other Italian regions and even crossing national borders. Today, nearly 200 giant benches enrich the Monferrato landscape.

Sitting on one of these whimsical structures and enjoying the vast beauty of nature rekindles a childlike sense of wonder. Perched up high, you’re instantly transported back to childhood, entranced by the expansive views. In this little corner of paradise, where time feels suspended, it’s not uncommon to dream of a life among the vineyards—perhaps even buying a home with a vineyard or a farmhouse to fully embrace the sweet lifestyle of Monferrato.

Here are five benches that make for a perfect starting point to explore the most authentic side of Monferrato:

Costigliole d’Asti

A well-known gastronomic destination in Piedmont, Costigliole d’Asti – also called the “City of Wine” – stands gracefully on a picturesque hill. Its majestic castle offers a commanding presence, with its baroque section facing a vast park and its neo-medieval wing overlooking the historic village of La Rocca. Two giant benches enhance the experience here: one at the stunning Bricco Lù viewpoint (#18), and another along Strada Castelletto (#17). Both invite visitors to take in the natural beauty around them, making Costigliole d’Asti a must-visit for lovers of wine and art.

Castagnole Monferrato

This enchanting village in the heart of Monferrato Astigiano is home to a regional enological gem: Ruché wine. Though home to just over a thousand residents, Castagnole Monferrato stands out for its prestigious wine production. Its giant red bench (#51), reminiscent of a glass of Ruché, is a perfect spot to soak in the rolling hills stretching from Vignale Monferrato to Montemagno. On clear days, you might even spot the signal tower of Viarigi in the distance. From here begins one of Monferrato’s most scenic hiking trails – about 10 km long and taking roughly 2.5 hours to complete – through nature and quiet country roads.

Lu and Cuccaro Monferrato

These two delightful towns form one municipality and share something special: two Big Benches! Situated between Casale Monferrato and Alessandria, Lu Monferrato offers 360-degree views from San Sebastiano Hill. The yellow and blue bench (#98) here matches the colors of local sports club ASD Beach Lu. It’s reachable via a short 10-minute path from the main square. From there, you can walk to bench #99 in Cuccaro Monferrato, set in a blooming lavender field. This serene experience – especially between late spring and early summer – lets you relax among the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of lavender.

Sala Monferrato

A charming village in the Casalese Monferrato area with just 340 inhabitants, Sala Monferrato offers one of the most accessible and scenic Big Benches. Painted pink and white, it sits near the Baroque chapel of San Grato, offering stunning views over the village and surrounding hills. Nearby, the “Botto Benches” made from giant colored pencils can be found close to the vineyards of the local winery, Cantina Botto. Sala Monferrato is also part of the core UNESCO zone of “Monferrato degli Infernot,” known for its ancient stone wine cellars carved into the rock.

Rosignano Monferrato

Rosignano Monferrato’s giant bench (#41), placed in 2017, holds a special place in this enchanting region. Located among the vineyards of the Ravizza family, it offers a sweeping view toward the picturesque village of Cella Monte. This was the first Big Bench installed in the area, inspiring many more across Monferrato. Its red-and-white colors pay tribute to the local Grignolino wine, and the stone base references the famous "Pietra da Cantoni" used in the area’s historical cellars (infernot). The bench is accessible via a short footpath starting near the Vicara winery. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the hills, vineyards, and historic villages – a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and beauty.