Bezos' Lavish Venice Nuptials: A 'Wedding of the Century' Amid Local Protests

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and journalist Lauren Sanchez are set to arrive in Venice this week for a high-profile, lavish wedding that has ignited local protests. The pair's three-day celebration, estimated to cost between 40-48 million euros, includes events at exclusive venues in the city, known for its historic and cultural significance.

An impressive 90 private jets will land in nearby airports, bringing celebrities and influential figures from the realms of showbiz, finance, and politics to the romantic city for what many call 'the wedding of the century'. The festivities begin Thursday night at the Madonna dell'Orto cloisters and continue with a Friday party on the island of San Giorgio. The wedding itself remains shrouded in mystery regarding its date and venue.

Local activists have raised concerns about Venice becoming a private playground for the rich, with heightened security measures attempting to shield guests from protesters. The culmination of the celebrations will take place at the Arsenale, a formidable, fortified art venue, offering a secure location for the main wedding bash.

(With inputs from agencies.)