105-Year-Old Engineer Shares Secrets to a Long Life in Sardinia

NUORO, Sardinia – Sebastiano Maccioni, a 105-year-old engineer from Nuoro, embodies a living link to a rapidly fading past. Born on November 4, 1918 – though officially registered on November 9th due to post-war celebrations following the end of World War I – Maccioni’s life story is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and a quiet appreciation for the advancements of the modern world. His story, as reported by Corriere della Sera, offers a unique perspective on a century of change in Sardinia and beyond.

Maccioni, affectionately known as “Bustianu” by friends and family, continues to maintain a remarkably active life. Until recently, he enjoyed a daily morning ritual with 89-year-old Simone Prina, a friend who would drive him to the Cambosu bar for conversation and companionship. A recent knee injury has necessitated the use of a walker, a device he admits he’s still adjusting to. Despite the physical challenges, his mind remains sharp, fueled by a lifelong love of learning and a commitment to staying informed.

Remarkably, Maccioni continued to drive until 2023, relying on his Fiat 600 for local errands. He stays current with the news, reading two national daily newspapers each morning, supplemented by regional publications accessed on his iPad. His dedication to his profession is equally impressive; he signed off on a drainage system project for the municipality of Lotzorai at the age of 92.

His daily routine is a blend of tradition and modernity. He rises before 7 am to receive his newspapers, enjoys a breakfast of homemade yogurt with bran, and spends his days reading, particularly on the subject of astrophysics – a fascination that continues to captivate him. Evenings are reserved for political talk shows and classic Westerns featuring John Wayne.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Maccioni’s longevity is his simple, consistent diet. For decades, his breakfast has consisted of yogurt and bran. Lunch features fish or chicken with vegetables, and dinner is a small portion of Pecorino Sardo cheese with *pane carasau*, a traditional Sardinian flatbread. This emphasis on fresh, local ingredients likely contributes to his remarkable health.

When asked about the most significant discovery of the last century, Maccioni doesn’t hesitate: electricity. He vividly recalls the wonder of witnessing the first electric lights illuminate his home as a young boy, a moment that left a lasting impression. Before electricity, his family relied on stearin candles and kerosene lamps, and water was drawn from wells and springs.

Maccioni’s early life was marked by hardship. He contracted malaria as a child while working on a family farm, an illness that claimed the life of his cousin. He also vividly remembers the bombing of Civitavecchia during World War II, a harrowing experience that left a lasting impact. He credits quick thinking and a bit of luck for his survival, recalling urging a fellow soldier to take cover moments before a devastating blast.

Despite facing obstacles, Maccioni pursued his education with determination. His father, recognizing his son’s intellectual curiosity, encouraged him to pursue studies beyond the family farm. He earned degrees in Mathematics and Civil Engineering, the latter completed after serving in the military. He later became a respected engineer, contributing to significant infrastructure projects in Sardinia, including a key section of the SS131 highway.

Maccioni’s professional accomplishments are impressive, but his personal life is equally noteworthy. He married Elena, and together they raised four children. He now enjoys the company of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passing on his wisdom and stories to future generations. He remains politically engaged, consistently exercising his right to vote and advocating for issues he believes in, including the separation of powers.

Born into a large family of ten children, Maccioni is one of only two siblings still living, his brother Antonio recently celebrating his own 104th birthday. The longevity within the Maccioni family is remarkable, a testament to good genes, a healthy lifestyle, and perhaps a bit of Sardinian resilience. Sardinia is known as a “Blue Zone,” a region of the world where people live measurably longer lives, and Maccioni’s story exemplifies the characteristics often associated with these areas – strong family ties, a plant-based diet, and regular physical activity. Donna Glamour notes that Elvira Serra, a journalist from Nuoro, also embodies this Sardinian pride.

Sebastiano Maccioni’s life is a compelling narrative of adaptation, perseverance, and a quiet appreciation for the simple things. His story serves as a reminder that a long and fulfilling life is not necessarily about grand achievements, but about embracing change, maintaining a sense of curiosity, and cherishing the connections that sustain us.

As he reflects on a century of experiences, Maccioni’s outlook remains remarkably optimistic. He acknowledges the inevitability of mortality but emphasizes the importance of preserving mental acuity. His story is a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

The story of Sebastiano Maccioni, as reported by Unione Sarda, is a poignant reminder of a bygone era and a celebration of a life well-lived.