The "No Big Boats Venice" group had announced plans to blockade canals around the Grande Scuola Misericordia, a 14th-century building in central Venice, the rumored venue for a party on 28/6. Facing this opposition, the party was reportedly moved to the Arsenale, a former shipyard on the outskirts of Venice, a less prominent location.
"We forced them to retreat. Bezos’s wedding party plan failed," the protest group said, adding that the billionaire's two yachts would also not dock in the city.
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A 400 m2 banner protesting Bezos in Venice. Photo: AFP |
A 400 m2 banner protesting Bezos in Venice. Photo: AFP
While details of the wedding remain private, locals and activists believe the three-day event began on 26/6 with a party at Venice Lido, followed by the wedding on 27/6 on San Giorgio Maggiore island. The celebrations were to conclude with a party and concert on the night of 28/6 – the final night’s venue was reportedly changed.
Protest banners against Bezos were hung on landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore island. The protest group also unfurled a 400 m2 banner depicting a smiling Bezos with the words: "Renting all of Venice for your wedding? Pay more taxes". Police later removed the banner.
For years, Venice has faced protests against mass tourism, large cruise ships, and activities deemed detrimental to the lives of local residents.
Despite the protests, the Veneto regional government said Bezos and his wife, journalist Lauren Sanchez, donated one million euros to a scientific research organization studying the Venice lagoon. Regional representative Luca Zaia called it "a gesture of love and responsibility", praising celebrities who not only hold private events in Venice but also contribute to the city's preservation efforts.
Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro supported the wedding, dubbed the "wedding of the century", pointing out that the event would bring 20-30 million euros to local businesses. However, many strongly opposed it due to Venice's existing over-tourism. Celebrity weddings, they argue, attract more tourists, further impacting residents' quality of life.
Anh Minh (CNN)
