At the age of 100, Anna Possi manages Bar Centrale, a beloved café in Nebbiuno, Italy, embodying the spirit of community and passion. Since its opening in 1958, Anna has welcomed patrons daily, transforming the café into a cultural hub. Despite personal challenges, her unwavering dedication and love for her work shine through. Engaging with the world and fostering connections, Anna emphasizes the importance of social interaction, offering valuable insights on aging gracefully and living life to the fullest.
The Timeless Spirit of Anna Possi
“Work is health,” a sentiment echoed by Henri Salvador in 1965, perfectly encapsulates the essence of Bar Centrale, a charming café managed by Italy’s oldest barista, Anna Possi. Nestled in the picturesque town of Nebbiuno, overlooking the stunning Lake Maggiore, this café has become a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike, all eager to experience the warmth and nostalgia that Anna radiates at the age of 100.
A Legacy of Passion and Community
Since the doors of Bar Centrale opened on May 1, 1958, Anna has been a vibrant presence, welcoming patrons from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Her remarkable dedication would put many young workers to shame. During the vibrant 60s and 70s, Bar Centrale was not just a café; it was a cultural hub, complete with a jukebox and foosball tables, where friends gathered to dance, laugh, and create unforgettable memories. “People came here to mingle and share unique moments,” Anna reminisces, reflecting on a time when community and connection were paramount.
Though she faced personal challenges, including the loss of her husband in 1974, Anna’s relentless spirit and commitment to her family and customers have kept Bar Centrale thriving. Her daughter Cristina proudly shares, “Since dad left, she has dedicated her life to us and the bar,” a testament to Anna’s unwavering resolve and love for her craft.
Anna’s curiosity about the world remains undiminished. Each morning, she engages with the latest news on her computer, showing a keen interest in global events and the stock market. “I want to keep learning and understanding,” she says, embodying a mindset of lifelong growth. To foster community, she has even created a reading corner in the café, encouraging customers to share books over steaming cups of coffee. Every Sunday, she delights guests with her homemade apple pie, celebrating her culinary roots.
Bar Centrale is not merely a café; it has transformed into a cherished gathering place, infused with human warmth and rich memories. It stands as a vintage bar that proudly preserves its authenticity through the years, continuing to draw in a loyal clientele.
For many retirees and locals, the café is as much about enjoying a cup of coffee as it is about engaging with Anna. “They leave happy and rejuvenated,” she beams, finding joy in these meaningful interactions. Anna’s 100th birthday celebration on November 16 attracted media attention, drawing curious visitors eager to learn her secrets to longevity.
When asked about her secret to staying vibrant at 100, Anna simply expresses the importance of being around people. “I don’t want to be melancholic. I want to live, to be among people,” she proclaims, highlighting the profound impact of daily social connections on her well-being.
For Anna, her work is not just a job; it is a source of joy and fulfillment. Her advice to the younger generation rings true: “Choose a job you love, and you will never regret your days.” As long as her health permits, Anna plans to continue serving coffee and nurturing the relationships that enrich her life.
As Italy witnesses a rise in centenarians, particularly among women, Anna Possi exemplifies what it means to age gracefully. Her passion for her work, her love for others, and her insatiable curiosity offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to embrace life fully. In Bar Centrale, every cup of coffee tells a story—one of a remarkable woman who has chosen to live vibrantly, one day at a time.
Ultimately, Anna’s journey reminds us that the heart of life lies in the connections we forge and the energy we gain from the company of others. By embracing her work each day, she cultivates a mindset that inspires us all to cherish every moment and celebrate life, no matter our age.