Marek Grechuta's bench in Opole

The Marek Grechuta Bench in Opole, unveiled on October 22, 2008, in Copernicus Square, is an important cultural and artistic monument. The sculpture, created by Wit Pichurski—a graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow and lecturer at the University of Opole—depicts the outstanding artist sitting on a bench. The casting of this remarkable sculpture was done by Wiktor Chalupczok. The monument was initiated by Professor Stanisław Sławomir Nicieja, a historian who recognized the need to commemorate Grechuta, an exceptional creator and poet. Architecturally, the bench harmoniously integrates into the space of the University Hill, emphasizing its educational and artistic character. On the backrest of the bench, leaves of wild grapevine have been placed, referencing the title of one of Marek Grechuta’s most famous songs, "W dzikie wino zaplątani" ("Tangled in Wild Grapevine"), adding a personal dimension to the work. The monument is not only a tourist attraction but also an important cultural element, reminding the residents of Opole and visitors of Grechuta’s contributions to Polish music and literature. It is also worth noting that the bench has become a meeting place and a source of inspiration for the local community and artists, creating a unique symbol of Opole’s culture.