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  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: A group of elderly men chat in a square in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0436.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (R-L)  Consolata Melis (106) talks with her brother Antonio (94) during an interview in her hourse the day before her sister Claudina's 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0248.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013: Children of a multigrade class sit during a break in the classroom at the elementary school of Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Family and friends of the Melis gather to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2250.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (R-L) Brothers Vitalio (87, a retired postman) and Adolfo Melis (90) enter their vegetable garden in Abbafittania, in the outskirts of Perdasdefogu, the day before Claudia Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0733.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Father Gianmarco Lai, a missionary priest in Madagascar, prepares to celebrate his mother Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1395.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  Caterina Pezzi, 80, elementary teacher of the territory of Varese Ligure, in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Women gather outside St. Peter's church after the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1899.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Father Gianmarco Lai, a missionary priest in Madagascar, greets his aunt during the mass celebrating his mother Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1574.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: The Melis family and their guest have lunch togeter to celebrate the 100th birthday of Claudina Melis (second from left) in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1148.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Vittorio Palmas (99, turning 100 years old on December 16th) hands a bouquet a roses to Claudina Melis for her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2011.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: An elderly man walks in the main street of Perdasdefogu after the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1949.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: St. Peter's church, where a mass celbrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday is about to take place, in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1330.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013:  Members of the Melis family outside Claudina Melis' house the day before her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0700.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: Family members of the Melis family unfold their genealogical tree at Conosolata Melis' house in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013. The Melis family descendents now account for about a fourth of the village.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0187.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  Maria Filipelli, 80, in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16g January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis enters a car tht will bring her to her 100th birthday party after the celebrated in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1939.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Father Gianmarco Lai (left), a missionary priest in Madagascar, is about to celebrate with his colleague priests his mother Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1404.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Altar boys prepare and priests prepare for the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1381.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis (99) is here in her home the day before her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0684.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: An elderly man walks in the streets of Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0426.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: Vitalio Melis, a 87 years old retired postman, looks outside the door of his sister Claudina's house the day before her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0503.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: Family pictures are here on Consolata Melis' wedding furniture from 1926 (including, from left to right, the portraits of her deceased son Adolfo, her deceased husband Giovanni and her deceased son Antonio) in her house in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0099.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Family and friends of the Melis gather to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2296.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: A man walks outside St. Peter's church after the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1904.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Elderly women step outside St. Peter's church after the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1896.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis (center) sits in the front row of St. Peter's church where a mass celebrating her 100th birthday is about to start, in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013. On the far left, her son Fabio greets his aunt Consolata (Claudina's sister) of 106 years old.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1345.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (L-R) Brothers Vitalio (87, a retired postman) and Adolfo Melis (90) enter their vegetable garden in Abbafittania, in the outskirts of Perdasdefogu, the day before Claudia Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0724.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (R-L)  Consolata Melis (106) laughs  during an interview in her hourse the day before her sister Claudina's 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0251.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  Graziella Bettarin, in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013: Michela Martone  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Family and friends of the Melis gather to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2295.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Family and friends of the Melis gather to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2227.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Massimo Lai holds her newborn Benedetta Lai, born 100 years after her great-grandmother Claudina Melis, during the mass celebrating Claudina's 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1510.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Guests have lunch together with the Melis family to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1018.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: The wedding dress of Consolata Melis from 1926 lays here in a bed in her bedroom in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0092.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: A wedding picture of Consolata Melis (106, here at age 18) with her now deceased husband Francesco Lai, is here in her house in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0079.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis enters a car tht will bring her to her 100th birthday party after the celebrated in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1940.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis steps outside St. Peter's church together with her grandchildren after the mass celebrating her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1933.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: People wait under a fig tree after the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1903.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis is here at St. Peter's church after the mass celebrating her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1710.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis, sitting in the fron row second from right - next to her 106 years old sister Consolata, participates at the mass celebrating her 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1628.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Elderly women return to their seat after receiving comunion at the mass celebrating Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1594.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Francesca Lai holds her newborn Benedetta Lai, born 100 years after her great-grandmother Claudina Melis, during the mass celebrating Claudina's 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1445.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: A detail of Claudina Melis'  hands (left) during the mass celebrating her 100th birthday in St- Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1443.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: (R-L) Flaviano Lai and his brother Francesco move a bench used by the Melis family for the lunch celebrating their grandmother Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1246.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: a guest pours oils in his salad during a lunch with the Melis family to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1179.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: A view of Perdasdefogu, in the province of Ogliastra, Sardinia, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0974.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: An elderly woman talks with a pedestrian in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0450.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: The interior of the bedroom of the 106 ears old Consolata Melis in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0371.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: The bedroom of 106 years old Consolata Melis in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0156.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: A literacy certificate given to Consolata Melis in 1925 at the age of 18 is here in her bedroom in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013. Consolata Melis went to school until her second grade.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0146.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 14 January, 2013: Principal of elementary school Cinzia Cacone sits at her desk in her office  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 14 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). In Liguria there are almost twie as much deaths than births. The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130115_NYT_Demographics__MG_1...jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Claudina Melis (center, sitting next to her siblings - from left to right - Antonio, Consolata and Vitalio) is about to blow the candles for her 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_2097.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Father Gianmarco Lai, a missionary priest in Madagascar, greets his mother Claudina Melis during the mass celebrating her 100th birthday in St. Peter's church in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1565.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Guests were invited to have lunch together with the Melis family to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1172.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 30 JUNE 2013: Four generations of the Melis family sit together for lunch to celebrate Claudina Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 30th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130630_NYT_Sardinia__MG_1073.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (R-L)  Consolata Melis (106) talks with her brothers Antonio (94) and Adolfo (90) during an interview in her hourse the day before her sister Claudina's 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_9988.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: A family picture dating 1936 of Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli with their nine children hangs in a bar in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_9893.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: A tree in the hills of of Abbafittania, in the outskirts of Perdasdefogu, nearby the Melis brothers' vegetable garden in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
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The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0920.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (R-L) Brothers Vitalio (87, a retired postman) and Adolfo Melis (90) enter their vegetable garden in Abbafittania, in the outskirts of Perdasdefogu, the day before Claudia Melis' 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0727.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: (L-R) Claudina Melis' sons Fabio Lai (ex mayor of Perdasdefogu), Father Gianmarco Lai (a missionary priest in Madagascar)  the day before their mother's 100th birthday in Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0670.jpg
  • PERDASDEFOGU, SARDINIA, ITALY - 29 JUNE 2013: An elderly woman and man walk in the main street of Perdasdefogu, Italy, on June 29th 2013. Today Perdasdefogu has two pensioners for every worker, an average age of 47, and an unemployment rate of around 25 percent. Between 2001 and 2011, the number of centenarians in Italy rose 138 percent, and that of nonagenarians rose 78 percent. Today, 20 percent of Italians are over the age of 65.<br />
<br />
Last year, the Melis family entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest combined age of any nine living siblings on earth — today more than 825 years. The youngest sibling, Mafalda – the "little one" – is 79 years old.<br />
<br />
The Melis siblings were all born in Perdasdefogu to Francesco Melis and Eleonora Mameli, who had a general store. Consolata, 106, is the oldest, then Claudia, 100; Maria, 98; Antonino, 94; Concetta, 92; Adolfo, 90; Vitalio, 87; Fida Vitalia, 81; and Mafalda, the baby at 79. Their descendants now account for about a third of the village.
    CIPG_20130629_NYT_Sardinia__MG_0458.jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
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Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
  • Sesta Godano, Italy - 16 January, 2013:  in Sesta Godano, Italy, on 16 January, 2013. <br />
<br />
Sesta Godano is a town in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region, with a population of about 1,400.  Because of a low number of children in the area, students in the elementary and seconday have been grouped in multigrade classes. According to the ISTAT (Italian National Statistical Institute) Liguria is the oldest of the Italian regions, with the highes ageing index of 232 percent compared to the national average of 144,5 percent and the EU average of 111,3 percent (data is from 2010). The average age in Liguria is 48 years old. <br />
<br />
Italy is ageing. According to ISTAT, the average age will rise from 43.5 in 2011 to a maximum of 49.8 in 2059.
    CIPG_20130116_NYT_Demographics__MG_2...jpg
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