Overview

• The Friday ceremony featured a serenade by Matteo Bocelli and drew roughly 200–250 celebrity and business figures, though it carries no legal status under Italian law
• Organizers have staged a three-day extravaganza estimated at €40–48 million, with over 90 private jets ferrying guests and events from a welcome party at Madonna dell’Orto to themed soirees
• Local residents and environmental activists have protested overtourism and the massive carbon footprint, unfurling banners in St Mark’s Square and planning further demonstrations
• Bezos and Sánchez have donated €3 million to the city and enlisted historic Venetian artisans, including Murano glassmakers Laguna B and pastry house Rosa Salva, for catering and favors
• The final celebration—a grand gala at the Arsenale—is scheduled for Saturday, concluding what has been billed as one of Venice’s most high-profile weddings