Billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Host Lavish Venetian Wedding Amid Protests
The enchanting backdrop of Venice has become the stage for the highly publicized wedding celebration of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée, Lauren Sánchez. The three-day extravaganza commenced with star-studded arrivals, including celebrities like Kim and Khloé Kardashian, Oprah Winfrey, and Leonardo DiCaprio, as elite guests traveled in over 90 private jets and lavish superyachts.
Arriving from the Aman hotel, where George and Amal Clooney wed, Bezos and Sánchez were seen leaving for an opening party at the historical Madonna dell’Orto church, adorned with works by Renaissance artist Tintoretto. However, their affair is met with opposition; protests have surged as critics argue that such elite events threaten Venice’s UNESCO status, transforming the city into a playground for the rich. Demonstrators even staged a dramatic display in St. Mark’s Square, reflecting discontent over the influx of tourists.
Local authorities increased security measures, restricting pedestrian and water traffic near the celebration sites. In light of protests, the location of the main reception has shifted from a 16th-century venue to the historic Arsenale, where the couple is expected to host a series of themed events, including a foamy bash and a pajama soirée.
Bezos and Sánchez’s wedding is estimated to cost between €40 million and €48 million. The couple plans to exchange vows on Friday on San Giorgio Maggiore island, serenaded by Matteo Bocelli.
In a bid to assuage local concerns, the couple reportedly doubled their donation to a lagoon preservation project from €1 million to €2 million. As festivities unfold, the juxtaposition of opulence and protest continues to shape public sentiment around the event, amplifying discussions on tourism, wealth, and cultural preservation in Venice.
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