Big Bench #348: Corneliano d’Alba

When Chris Bangle, the former chief designer at BMW, left his post and settled in Piedmont, one of the first things he designed was a giant red bench—like a normal park bench, but much, much larger—that he placed outside his home in Clavesana, near Mondovì. 

The idea was simple: to create something that would help adults reconnect with a childlike sense of wonder—and it was an instant hit. The Big Bench Community Project was born, and colourful benches began popping up all over the hills—first across Piedmont, then throughout Italy, and eventually all over the world. There are now more than 440, each one funded by private donors.

The panchine giganti—as locals call them—aren’t always easy to find; part of the fun is stumbling across them while exploring the hills. So when I found out one had been installed directly above my in-laws’ house in Corneliano d’Alba, I had to go and check it out for myself. 

To get there, we walked up Via Lemonte, which leads away from the main town square, passing Corneliano’s mysterious ten-sided (decagonal) medieval tower and the church of San Bernardo, then took a left at a small fork in the road and climbed a wooden staircase.

The bright blue bench with a red stand loomed into view as I reached the last step, and reminded me of rushing into the playground at breaktime, trying to be the first on the swings. Like most Big Benches, this one is both tucked away and perfectly placed, with panoramic views of the Roero hills.

Although it was a cloudy evening, the light—more silver hour than golden hour—bathed the vineyards and villages below us in muted greens, golds, and browns. 

Big Benches seem to bring out everyone’s playful side, and we spent a few minutes taking photos, dangling our legs, and contemplating the view as dusk began to fall—before heading back into the village for dinner and a glass of wine.

How to Visit

The Corneliano d’Alba Big Bench (#348) sits above the village on Via Lemonte, a 15-minute walk uphill from the main square.

From the church of San Bernardo, continue straight, then take the left fork (you’ll see “Big Bench” signs) and climb the wooden staircase. The bench is at the top, in a clearing in the woods with panoramic views of the Roero hills.

You can find all official bench locations on the Big Bench Community Project map, and if you’re collecting stamps, don’t forget to bring your Big Bench passport—you can get it stamped at Rosa Caffè in Corneliano.

Looking for more things to do in Piedmont? Discover scenic walks, cultural highlights, and food and wine experiences in this curated guide.

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