Mauro Morandi, affectionately dubbed the "Robinson Crusoe" of Italy, passed away at the age of 85. Known for his solitary life on the Budelli island, Morandi was the island's sole resident for 32 years. The island, a former World War II shelter off Sardinia, became his home after a serendipitous shipwreck in 1989. Morandi dedicated his time to maintaining the pristine beaches and educating visitors about the island's delicate ecosystem. His life took a turn in 2021 when Italian authorities evicted him as Budelli transitioned into a protected nature park.
Born in Modena, Italy, Morandi was a physical education teacher before embarking on his life-changing journey. In 1989, he set sail for Polynesia but ended up shipwrecked on Budelli island, where he found solace in a house made from coral, granite, and shells. In an interview with CNN after his eviction, he reflected on his new chapter in life by saying:
“It’s never really over,” Morandi told CNN in 2021 after leaving his island paradise. “I’m the living proof that a second, new life is possible. You can always start all over again, even if you’re over 80, because there are other things you can experience, a totally different world.”
Following his eviction, Morandi moved to La Maddalena, an archipelago off Sardinia. There, he settled into a one-bedroom apartment and later entered a nursing home in Sassari after experiencing a fall last summer. Despite these changes, Morandi expressed contentment with his new surroundings.
“I’m happy and I have rediscovered the pleasure of living the good life and enjoying everyday comforts,” he told CNN.
Morandi's death occurred in Modena after his health declined. Throughout his life, he embraced change and demonstrated resilience, inspiring many with his ability to adapt and find beauty in simplicity.
