In the northern Italian town of Nebbiuno, overlooking the serene Lake Maggiore, Anna Possi stands as a testament to resilience and dedication. At 100 years old, she continues to work daily at Bar Centrale, the cafe she and her late husband opened on May 1, 1958. Possi begins her workdays at 7 a.m. and serves customers until the evening, a routine she has maintained for more than six decades.
Possi’s steadfast commitment to her profession has earned her the honorary title of Commander of the Republic. Known affectionately as the “vintage barista,” she remains a familiar and respected figure in the community. Her establishment, once a bustling hub of modernity in the 1960s and 1980s with a jukebox and foosball table, has transitioned into a cherished local landmark.
After her husband’s death in 1974, Possi devoted her life to raising their two children and sustaining the bar. She reflects fondly on its golden era but avoids lingering in nostalgia. Today, Bar Centrale offers more subdued attractions, such as a bookstand for customers to enjoy alongside their coffee, and homemade apple pie on Sundays.
Despite her age, Possi embraces both tradition and progress. Each morning, she uses a computer to read the news and monitor the stock market. Her clientele, once primarily local pensioners, has expanded in the wake of her milestone birthday, as visitors from beyond Nebbiuno come to meet her and witness her unwavering energy firsthand.
Possi attributes her longevity to her social engagement and desire to remain active. “I want to live, to be among people,” she says. She has no plans to retire, stating, “I’ll keep going as long as my health permits.” She also offers advice to younger generations: “Choose a job you enjoy.”
Her story highlights a broader demographic shift in Italy, which now has more than 22,000 centenarians, according to the national statistics agency Istat. While most of these centenarians are women, Possi’s remarkable story of dedication and perseverance sets her apart as an enduring symbol of commitment and vitality.
