Jeff Bezos Changes Venice Wedding Venue Amid Protests Over Inequality and Overtourism

Venice, Italy – June 25, 2025: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has shifted his high-profile wedding plans in Venice after a wave of protests from local residents and activist groups, who argue the billionaire’s celebration symbolizes growing inequality and the commercialization of the historic city.

The wedding, originally slated for the prestigious Scuola Grande della Misericordia in Venice’s crowded city center, was moved to the more secure and isolated Arsenale complex on the city’s outskirts. The decision followed weeks of demonstrations led by the coalition "No Space for Bezos," which includes housing advocates, anti-cruise ship campaigners, and university groups. Protesters threatened to block canals with boats and even considered deploying inflatable alligators to disrupt the festivities.

Activists staged several protests in the days leading up to the event. Banners reading "No Space for Bezos" and "If you can rent Venice for your wedding, you can pay more tax" were unfurled at iconic sites like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square. Greenpeace and the British group "Everyone Hates Elon" joined the demonstrations, highlighting issues of tax breaks for billionaires and the environmental impact of lavish private events in a city already struggling with overtourism and depopulation.

“We believe a single billionaire shouldn’t have the power to rent an entire city for personal enjoyment,” said protester Simona Abbate. Organizers claim their pressure forced the venue change, which they hailed as a victory for local residents.

Despite the relocation, details about the ceremony between Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez remain tightly guarded. The couple is expected to host their celebration at the Arsenale, a historic shipyard complex surrounded by water and fortified walls, making it easier to secure and less disruptive to daily life in Venice.

Bezos’ representatives have not commented publicly on the protests. Local authorities, meanwhile, continue to face criticism for prioritizing high-profile tourism over the needs of Venice’s residents, as the city grapples with the challenges of maintaining its fragile environment and unique cultural heritage.