Anna Possi, the oldest barista in Italy, has dedicated her life to her café, Bar Centrale, located in the picturesque town of Nebbiuno overlooking Lake Maggiore. Having recently celebrated her 100th birthday on November 16, Possi is not just serving espressos and cappuccinos; she is also dishing out life lessons.
At her café, Possi has been working tirelessly since May 1, 1958, when she opened its doors alongside her late husband. "I have a customer," she insists on the phone, emphasizing the vibrant atmosphere of her establishment where she often works from morning until night. Years of dedication have earned her the honorary title of Commander of the Republic, recognizing her impact on the local community.
"I’m always working – Sundays, Easter, Christmas. I’m never on holiday," she reflects. A routine firmly established, Possi's bar has transformed over the decades from modern to vintage, marking significant moments not just for her but for countless patrons over the years.
During its heyday, the café became known as the place to be, drawing crowds for dancing and socializing, especially with the help of its popular jukebox. "They came here to mingle, to dance," she fondly recalls. Notable guests such as AC Milan players Gianni Rivera and Fulvio Collovati filled Bar Centrale with life, energizing the old establishment with their presence.
After losing her husband in 1974, Possi devoted herself to raising their two children and keeping the bar alive, stating, "Since Dad died she never wanted to have another relationship," as shared by her daughter, Cristina. The '60s through '80s are described by Possi as "the most beautiful years" of the bar's existence, brimming with memories yet not rooted solely in nostalgia.
While the lively jukebox may have been retired, Possi has embraced modernity with the introduction of a computer at her bar. Each morning, she stays informed, checking the news and stock exchange, and demonstrating her passion for lifelong learning. "I read everything. I still want to learn and understand things," she said, maintaining her curious mind at 100 years old.
Most of her clientele these days comprises retirees from the town, who visit not only for the coffee but for companionship. "When they leave, they leave happy and recharged – I don’t know what it is I’ve transmitted," she notes about her interactions with customers, emphasizing the importance of community.
With her centenary birthday publicized, the café has seen renewed interest, attracting visitors eager to meet the centenarian barista. "People come to meet me because they find it impossible to believe I’m still working," she admits. This new influx of patrons speaks volumes about her reputation and the emotional connection she fosters with others.
Possi is firm on what she believes contributes to her remarkable longevity: being around people. Refusing to dwell on melancholy, she prefers to remain engaged and vibrant. "I want to live, to be among people," she asserts, embodying the spirit of her lively bar.
Her advice to the younger generation? "Choose a job you enjoy." It's wisdom born from experience, firmly rooted in her philosophy of love for work, and it resonates deeply with those she meets.
Statistics support her experience; according to the national statistics agency Istat, Italy, which boasts the highest number of centenarians recorded, had 22,552 individuals aged over 100 by the end of 2023. Remarkably, the majority are women, reflecting the trend seen with notable figures like Claudia Baccarini, the current oldest living person at 114, and Emma Morano, who previously held the record of the world’s oldest until her passing at 117.
With no plans of slowing down, Possi continues to serve her customers with as much passion as ever, relishing each moment behind the counter. "I’ll keep going so long as my health permits," she declares with determination. For Anna Possi, life is about connections, hard work, and enjoying every single day, and she is certainly living proof of embodying those values.
