Bolotana village in Sardinia shows exceptional longevity

A study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging suggests that the village of Bolotana, located in central Sardinia, Italy, could become a new “blue zone” due to the extraordinary longevity of its residents. Research conducted between 2021 and 2025 indicates that women in the village have significantly higher survival rates in old age compared to national averages.

Data shows that women in Bolotana who reach the age of 70 have a 13.83 percent chance of living to 100, which is more than three times the Italian average of 3.54 percent. The expected remaining life expectancy for women aged 70 in the village is 20.85 years, compared to 18.06 years in Italy. While men also show longevity, the trend is less pronounced, with a 4.92 percent chance of reaching 100.

Researchers and National Geographic investigators have identified several lifestyle factors contributing to these results. Key elements include high levels of daily physical activity, such as walking on the village's sloped streets, and a diet that is approximately 90 percent plant-based. The local diet emphasizes legumes, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil, while meat and cheese are consumed more sparingly.