Bezos Bash Bypasses Venice Center Amid Protests

Amidst escalating disruptions, Jeff Bezos and his bride moved their lavish wedding celebration. The shift from central Venice to an isolated venue in the eastern part of the city highlights the growing tension between luxury and public space.

Protestors Voice Concerns

Tommaso Cacciari, a leader in the “No Space for Bezos” movement, told Reuters that the emphasis on the city as a stage has never been so pronounced because of the wedding. Around 1,000 protestors rallied in front of Venice’s train station. They then marched towards the Rialto Bridge, fueled by the scorching sun.

Protests against the #Bezos wedding in Venice. pic.twitter.com/J3kXb1g2lF

— euronews (@euronews) June 11, 2023

Demonstrators carried banners with messages such as Kisses yes, Bezos no, drawing on Venice’s romantic image. They also displayed, No space for Bezos alongside a rocket, a reference to his Blue Origin venture.

Economic Impact and Local Views

While activists protested, local businesses and politicians embraced the event. Luca Zaia, the governor of Veneto, said Venice should be proud to host the wedding.

The luxury market in Italy is booming, with sales up 19% in 2023, reaching €14.6 billion (Statista 2024).

Shifting Venue

Concerns about significant disturbances prompted the relocation of the celebrity wedding. This shift shows the balancing act between the desire for economic benefits and the realities of potential public opposition.