The mountainous region of Ogliastra, tucked away in east-central Sardinia, is world-famous as one of the planet’s official “Blue Zones” — geographic areas with an extraordinarily high concentration of centenarians. In isolated mountain villages such as Seulo and Perdasdefogu, scientists have documented some of the highest male longevity rates anywhere on Earth. Researchers are amazed that this phenomenon occurs not in major urban centers with high-tech medical facilities, but in traditional ridgetop communities. The secret behind this long life lies in a well-preserved genetic pool, a traditional diet low in saturated fats, strong family and social cohesion that reduces stress, and a rugged terrain that requires residents to walk up and down steep hills daily.