LongeviQuest is delighted to announce that, as of 5 February 2025, we have verified the world’s longest-lasting marriage where both spouses are still living—one of the longest unions ever recorded in history. Through extensive research conducted by Iara Souza, Gabriel Ainsworth, and Filipe Lopes, it has been confirmed that this remarkable title belongs to a couple from a rural zone of Boa Viagem, Ceará, Brazil. Manoel Angelim Dino (105) and Maria de Sousa Dino (101) have been married since 20 November 1940, and as of today, they have spent an astonishing 84 years and 77 days together in marriage.
Manoel Angelim Dino and Maria de Sousa Dino were born on 17 July 1919, and 23 April 1923, respectively, in Boa Viagem, Ceará, Brazil.
The couple first met around 1936 while working in agriculture, helping their families. Manoel had traveled to the Almeida region in the Boa Viagem district to collect a shipment of rapaduras (a traditional Brazilian candy) when he first encountered Maria. However, nothing came of their meeting at the time. Years later, fate brought them together again, and on 20 November 1940, they were married. At the time, they were 21 and 17, respectively.
On Maria’s 101st birthday in April 2024.
From the moment Manoel saw Maria again, he fell in love at first sight. Wasting no time, he expressed his feelings and asked her out. Maria was unaware of his romantic interest at the time. They met and never separated. However, Maria’s mother was initially opposed to the relationship. Determined to win over his future in-laws, Manoel patiently gained their trust and even began building a home for the family he was about to start.
After their wedding, the couple worked side by side in agriculture, cultivating rolled tobacco to support their growing family. They suffered a lot in the countryside. Over the years, they raised 13 children (nine are living), and the family grew to include 55 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren.
On Manoel’s 103rd birthday in July 2022.
Now in their later years, their days are peaceful. Due to his age, Manoel spends most of his time resting, only getting up in the evening to sit beside his wife in the living room. Every evening at 6 p.m., they listen to the rosary prayer on the radio, followed by Mass on television.
The couple stated that the key to a long life lies in refraining from vices, and according to Maria, the secret to a long and happy marriage is simple: love.
In February 2025, aged 101 and 105, respectively.
LongeviQuest would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the couple and their family on this extraordinary milestone. Their enduring love and commitment serve as an inspiration to people around the world. A marriage lasting over 84 years is a rare and remarkable achievement—a testament to the power of enduring love, mutual respect, and shared values, offering an example for future generations. We wish them continued happiness, health, and love in the years to come.
