Big Bench n° 14 Scaparoni: A Turquoise Giant in the Langhe

Big Bench n° 14 Scaparoni, also known as the Turquoise Deaf Big Bench, offers visitors a unique and picturesque experience in the heart of Italy's Piedmont region. Located in Localita' Scaparoni, near Alba, this giant turquoise bench is part of the Big Bench Community Project (BBCP), an initiative that supports local enterprise, tourism, and craftsmanship. The bench is situated on a hilltop in the Scaparoni area, providing stunning views of the surrounding Langhe region. The Langhe is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. The bench itself is painted in a vibrant turquoise color, making it a striking landmark in the landscape. The Big Bench Community Project was founded by American designer Chris Bangle and his wife Catherine. The project aims to promote the beauty of the Langhe region and support the local communities. The benches are designed to provide visitors with a unique perspective on the landscape, encouraging them to slow down and appreciate the surroundings. Big Bench n° 14 was installed by a group of deaf individuals associated with the LIS (Lingua Italiana dei Segni) association. Near the bench, there's a small grove, a little house, and an old refrigerator filled with books. Behind the bench, a maple tree was planted in May 2021 to commemorate the Madonna dell'Acero miracle, where a deaf-mute boy regained his hearing and speech under a tree of this species. A repainted turquoise bicycle also sits near the bench.