Italy's Regional Demographics and Aging Trends
Italy is recognized globally for its high life expectancy and rapidly aging population, ranking as one of the oldest countries in Europe. Demographics show a significant regional divide, with northern and central Italy having an older population compared to the south. This phenomenon is driven by a combination of high living standards, quality healthcare, and persistently low birth rates.
The most recent data points to the region of Liguria, located in the northwest, as having the highest average age on the peninsula, at 49.6 years in 2025. This region, which includes the coastal city of Genoa and the Italian Riviera, faces a demographic challenge where a significant portion of its residents are over 65. While this makes it the oldest region, pinpointing a single town requires looking at other factors, including the famous "Blue Zones" and specific research into centenarian populations.
Sardinia's 'Blue Zone' and Perdasdefogu
One of the most famous and well-studied regions for longevity is the eastern part of the island of Sardinia. Researchers Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain identified this area as the first "Blue Zone," a demographic hot spot where an unusually high number of people live to be 100 or older, particularly men.
Within this Blue Zone, the small village of Perdasdefogu has gained international attention for its remarkable number of centenarians. In one notable instance, a single family from the town held a Guinness World Record for the highest combined age of nine living siblings. The longevity of Perdasdefogu's residents is attributed to a combination of genetic factors and a traditional, healthy lifestyle, including a diet of fresh, whole foods, daily physical activity, and strong social and familial ties.
Acciaroli and Other Longevity Studies
Beyond the Blue Zones, other small Italian villages have captured the attention of researchers. In 2016, the coastal village of Acciaroli in the Campania region was featured for having a disproportionately high number of centenarians—approximately 300 out of a population of 1,000—and a low rate of heart disease. A U.S.-Italian research team studied the residents to understand their unique aging process. Some of their potential secrets included a Mediterranean diet rich in anchovies, olive oil, and rosemary, and an active, low-stress lifestyle. However, it is important to note that such specific statistics can fluctuate over time.
Lifestyle and Diet: The Common Threads of Longevity
Regardless of the specific town, research into Italian longevity reveals several common themes. People in these long-lived communities often share similar lifestyle habits and dietary patterns.
Diet
- Plant-based focus: Diets are typically rich in locally sourced fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
- Healthy fats: The liberal use of extra-virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, providing beneficial monounsaturated fats.
- Moderate wine consumption: In regions like Sardinia, the local Cannonau wine is noted for high levels of flavonoids, though moderation is key.
- Local specialties: Specific foods like anchovies in Acciaroli and milk thistle tea in Sardinia are part of their daily routine.
Physical Activity
- Natural movement: Daily, non-strenuous physical activity is a part of life. This includes walking long distances to tend to livestock, gardening, and climbing hilly terrain.
- Avoiding sedentary habits: Residents stay active through everyday tasks rather than relying on formal gym workouts.
Social and Family Connections
- Strong social networks: A strong sense of community and social engagement is a protective factor against depression and loneliness.
- Value for elders: Respect for and the integration of elders into family life is a cornerstone of the culture, providing them with a strong sense of purpose.
Comparing Notable Italian Longevity Hotspots
| Feature | Sardinia (Blue Zone) | Liguria (Region) | Acciaroli (Former Focus) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Longevity Metric | High concentration of centenarians, especially men | Highest average regional age in Italy (2025) | High proportion of centenarians in 2016 |
| Dietary Habits | Plant-based, goat/sheep cheese, local wine, beans | Mediterranean-influenced; likely varied across towns | Mediterranean, specific focus on anchovies, olive oil, rosemary |
| Lifestyle | Daily physical activity (walking mountains), strong family ties | Varies by town; coastal towns more tourist-focused | Active, non-strenuous physical activity, social engagement |
| Status | Continues to be a subject of Blue Zone research | Demographically oldest region based on average age | High centenarian numbers reported in 2016, but may have changed |
Conclusion: The Answer is More Than a Single Location
Ultimately, the question of what town in Italy has the oldest population does not have a single, fixed answer. Based on current average age statistics, towns within the Liguria region likely have the highest overall average. However, if the question is interpreted as the location with the highest concentration of exceptionally old people, specifically centenarians, the evidence points to certain villages within the Sardinian Blue Zone, such as Perdasdefogu. Other locations, like Acciaroli, have also shown remarkable rates of longevity, which are subject to change over time. The real takeaway from these vibrant communities is not a single location but a collection of healthy habits—a plant-rich diet, consistent physical activity, and a strong sense of family and community—that collectively contribute to longer, healthier lives.
For more information on the global phenomenon of long-lived communities, explore the research available at the National Institutes of Health.
