New benches will soon be appearing all over the city of Zurich but many will be hard to recognise at first. Some are disguised as fearsome crocodiles, tropical beaches or Swiss banking secrecy.

The hundreds of new benches are part of the summer event called, "Bench Art Zurich 2001 - Sit-seeing in Zurich".

The newly-created or remodelled benches are the work of sculptors, painters, graphic artists and designers. They are intended to bring a bit of playful colour to the city and provide a welcome place for shoppers exploring the city's renowned boutiques to rest their weary feet.

Benches will also be placed in strategic locations around the lake, in parks and at the train station. The local tourist office is organising "sit-seeing tours" for people wanting to see the city on foot without wearing out their shoes.

A guide will be available listing the summer events around Bench Art Zurich 2001, which will include a map of all the bench locations.

Although the benches won't be unveiled until May 18, it's an open secret that "Banking Secrecy" won't be far from the headquarters of one of Switzerland's vaunted financial institutions and will provide important clients a place to take the weight off their feet.

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