Dua Lipa and Callum Turner wedding in Sicily sparks controversy

Pop star Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner held a two‑day celebration in Sicily after their May 31 wedding in London. The festivities took place at the 18th‑century Villa Valguarnera in Bagheria, with the yacht Nero docked in Palermo, traffic closures in the historic centre and extensive security measures. Local officials reported that the venue, a popular film‑location and wedding spot, was prepared for a guest list of several hundred, including international media.

British tabloids described the villa as an "ex‑mafia stronghold," prompting criticism from Sicilian regional president Renato Schifani, who said the coverage caused "enormous damage to Sicily’s image" and demanded an apology. The controversy highlighted the tension between celebrity tourism and the island’s effort to shed outdated stereotypes.