By Nikolas Bardis

In many regions of Greece, such as in Ikaria whose fame goes around the world, people live for many years, while in some cases they exceed 100. This is due to a good life and a balanced diet, or at least that is what the scientists who have been studying the secrets of longevity for many years tell us. The show Where There is Greece while filming in the picturesque Nisyros, met the oldest inhabitant of the island, Mr. Konstantinos Tactiko who is 101 years old, and his best friend Mr. George who is only 88 years old.

The two are truly inseparable, with their friendship spanning over 50 years. Mr. Kostas calls Mr. Giorgos his brother, and he does not remember a moment in his life that he spends it away from him. Their friendship is as strong as the magura George gave him as a gift a few years ago, as he needed it growing up. So, just as the magura remains almost intact, even though it is used every day, so Mr. Kostas is a strong boat, and despite the years he carries on his back, he remains energetic and headstrong.
Every morning the two close friends take the bus to Mandraki, the port of the island, where they drink their traditional coffee, overlooking the endless blue. Then, after they retire, they do the shopping for the house, and then there’s the rest. When asked about the secret of longevity, he replied that he always took care of his diet, but also the amount of food he consumed. He did not abuse and took care of himself. And just like that, the years passed, with the result that today he is the oldest living resident of the island!

The “untouchable twin” of Nisyros lives permanently in the traditional village of Nikia, above the imposing volcano of the island, and all the locals love them. Wherever they find themselves and wherever they stand, everyone without exception greets them, makes puns, treats them and generally holds them in high esteem. In fact, when Mr. Konstantinos reached 100, the villagers celebrated his birthday in the village’s central square, made sweets and various local delicacies, to celebrate this special event. In an atmosphere of joy, with the emotion clearly visible in his eyes, Mr. Kostas completed a full century of life on his beloved island, and celebrated it next to his loved ones. Is there anything more beautiful than this?