Sardinia, an Italian island in the Mediterranean, has attracted attention from researchers and longevity experts as a potential new "blue zone"—regions known for their high concentration of centenarians. The island’s reputation for long life, particularly among women, has been discussed at recent events such as the Costa Smeralda longevity festival, where scientists debated the factors contributing to this phenomenon, ranging from genetics to lifestyle and environment.
One area of interest is Arzachena, near Sardinia’s northeast coast, identified last year as a possible blue zone. More recently, Bolotana, a mountain village, has become a focal point for studies, particularly highlighting the longevity of its female residents. However, the existence of these longevity hotspots is disputed. Saul Newman, a researcher from University College London, has expressed skepticism, suggesting that inaccuracies and errors in records call into question the reliability of data on Sardinian centenarians. Conversely, Gianni Pes, a medical statistician involved in identifying Sardinia’s first blue zone, defends the findings, pointing to thorough verification of birth, marriage, and death certificates.
The island’s environment is often cited as integral to the long lives of its inhabitants. Ancient Bronze Age nuraghi structures coexist with centuries-old olive trees, while natural thermal springs have been valued since Roman times for their healing properties. Additionally, local Mediterranean flora such as immortelle—a plant with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory qualities—features in traditional remedies.
Residents’ lifestyles also play a role. Emma Bird, a long-term resident of Sardinia, recalls adapting to the island’s pace and physical demands after moving there in 2003. Although she maintains an active regime including Pilates, hiking, and paddleboarding, she notes that exercise and diet on the island do not always align with conventional health advice; for example, regular consumption of cheese and red wine is common.
Bird highlights the social factors that contribute to well-being in Sardinia, emphasizing the strong sense of community and intergenerational respect. Unlike in many other societies, elderly women remain socially active and influential, retaining their voices within the community. Bird describes weekly gatherings with her 91-year-old neighbour Maria, whose interests range from artificial intelligence to current affairs, illustrating how age does not limit social engagement.
Despite these positive aspects, Sardinia faces demographic and social challenges. The island has Italy’s lowest birthrate, a shrinking population, and growing concerns about child poverty, school dropout rates, and suicide. Economic difficulties persist, with low wages becoming a driver of outmigration. These trends raise concerns that the traditions underpinning Sardinia’s longevity may erode, potentially relegating the region to a "longevity museum" rather than a living model.
Bird reflects candidly on mortality, expressing a wish to live to an advanced age only if health and independence are maintained. She finds inspiration in Maria’s vitality, who recently celebrated a family milestone by dancing late into the night and traveling extensively.
As research continues, Sardinia remains a significant focus for understanding longevity, offering insights that combine environmental, social, and cultural factors, while also confronting the realities of demographic shifts and modern challenges.