In the small coastal village of Acciaroli, Italy, life moves slowly, meals are simple, and laughter flows as freely as the wine. But what truly sets this place apart is something almost unbelievable: nearly one in ten residents live to be 100 years old or more. Some even reach 110. This unusual concentration of centenarians has drawn the attention of scientists from around the world who hope to understand the secrets behind such impressive longevity.
What Is Acciaroli Like?
Acciaroli is located about 85 miles south of Naples, on Italy’s Cilento coast. With a population of around 700, it’s a quiet hamlet tucked between the sea and the hills. Its streets are filled with people enjoying life at a relaxed pace. Elderly residents sit outside cafes sipping coffee or wine, chatting with neighbors, and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. There’s no rush, no stressful traffic, and very little sign of modern-day hustle.
The town’s location also puts it in the heart of the Mediterranean diet region, which was famously studied by American nutritionist Ancel Keys. He and his wife eventually moved to the area, and he himself lived to be 100.
The Phenomenon of Longevity
Scientists from Rome’s Sapienza University and the University of California San Diego have launched studies to figure out what’s really going on in Acciaroli. After six months of research, they’ve uncovered some surprising facts.
Blood samples from the village’s older residents show extremely low levels of a hormone called adrenomedullin, which in high amounts can cause blood vessels to shrink, leading to poor circulation and other health problems. But the people in Acciaroli had the same hormone levels typically found in people in their twenties or thirties. This means their capillary circulation, which supports vital organs and tissue health, remains strong even as they age.
Even more surprising is what these researchers didn’t find: there were almost no cases of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, obesity, or cataracts among the elderly population. This is rare, especially when compared to Western countries like the United States, where such conditions are common among older adults.
What’s Their Secret?
Although no single answer explains it all, several key factors seem to work together to create this remarkable longevity.
Diet is one of the most obvious. Locals eat fresh, locally caught fish, home-raised chickens and rabbits, and a wide variety of vegetables and fruit grown nearby. Olive oil is a staple, and many meals include rosemary, a herb known to improve brain function. Scientists are now studying the local rosemary, which appears to contain compounds that benefit cognitive health.
Another important part of daily life is relaxation and social bonding. The people of Acciaroli don’t follow intense fitness routines. You won’t see them jogging or in gyms. But they do stay active through walking and gardening. They also spend time outdoors and enjoy a strong sense of community. Their evenings often include wine, conversation, and laughter.
One unexpected finding was that sexual activity remains common among the elderly. Dr. Alan Maisel, a cardiologist involved in the research, noted that this might be another piece of the puzzle. It may reflect the overall physical and emotional well-being of the residents.
Can This Be Replicated Elsewhere?
It’s natural to wonder if people outside Acciaroli can enjoy the same long, healthy lives. While we can’t all move to a seaside Italian village, some lessons from Acciaroli may be transferable.
First, diet matters. Eating natural, unprocessed foods, especially fish, vegetables, and healthy fats, can greatly improve health. Second, mental health and social connection play a big role. Slowing down, enjoying time with loved ones, and reducing stress are things people everywhere can work toward. Lastly, moderate daily activity and a strong sense of purpose may help people live not just longer, but better.
While genetics likely play some role in the villagers’ long lives, the lifestyle in Acciaroli is something the rest of the world can learn from. As Dr. Maisel joked, after meeting one of the oldest residents, he wanted to say what was famously said in When Harry Met Sally — “I’ll have what they’re having.” And maybe, with a few changes, we all can.
