Monday, August 26, 2024 Sardinia Leverages Residents’ Longevity to Attract Tourists On the Italian island of Sardinia, the small town of Seulo is making headlines for its unique tourism appeal—its residents’ extraordinary longevity. Sardinia is one of the world’s five designated “Blue Zones,” where people live significantly longer lives than average. The other four Blue Zones include Okinawa in Japan, Nicoya in Costa Rica, Ikaria in Greece, and Loma Linda in California, USA.
Seulo, with a population of just around 800, has a remarkable history of centenarians. From 1996 to 2016, 20 residents of this tiny town celebrated their 100th birthdays. Historical records dating back to 1866 also reveal that Seulo has one of the highest concentrations of centenarians in Italy.
Remarkably, about 43 percent of babies born in Seulo in 1922 lived to at least 90 years old. The town’s longevity became part of its identity after the Blue Zone designation was awarded in 2016 by an observatory led by researcher Gianni Pes, one of the pioneers in exploring the concept. Since then, local authorities have capitalized on this status, using it as a central theme to attract tourists.
Signs throughout the town celebrate its residents’ exceptional lifespans, with messages such as “Seulo, the longest living community in the world.” Tourists are drawn to Seulo to experience the lifestyle and culinary habits that contribute to the residents’ long lives. “There is a type of tourism that’s about curiosity and experiences,” explained Seulo’s Mayor, Enrico Murgia.
Visitors come to immerse themselves in the local culture, savor the traditional diet, and observe the daily routines that have contributed to the town’s remarkable longevity. Local businesses have thrived as a result of this unique tourism strategy. For instance, Seulo’s first hotel, opened in 1985 by Luciana Patrizia Moi’s family, is now being redeveloped to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
The town has also seen the emergence of various other accommodations, including bed-and-breakfasts and campsites. Seulo is not just a destination for tourists but also for scholars, doctors, and journalists who are keen to learn the secrets of the town’s long-lived residents. Tour guide Giovanni Ghiani noted the influx of experts eager to hear directly from the elders of Seulo.
Nestled at the foot of Monte Perdedu, Seulo offers more than just a unique cultural experience. The town is a gateway to Sardinia’s stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, deep gorges, cliffs, and caves filled with stalagmites and stalactites. The region’s most famous attraction is a water landscape that features a sinkhole, a cave, a spring, and a waterfall.
Scientists believe that the extraordinary longevity of Seulo’s residents can be attributed to a combination of their traditional diet, consistent physical activity, and a stress-free lifestyle. As the town continues to attract global attention, it stands as a living testament to the benefits of a simple, yet fulfilling life..
