Thanks to generosity of the Basile family – brothers Alex, Anthony, Paul, and Carlo – the observatory at the Madona Queen Shrine was completely renovated. The improvements included a new elevator and a chairlift for physically challenged visitors.
The observatory space provides some of the most breathtaking views of nearby Logan International Airport and the capital city of Boston’s impressive skyline.
In an impressive ceremony held June 20 at the site on Orient Avenue, the observatory was rededicated in memory of Mrs. Teresa Basile, who passed away on March 26, 2026 at the age of 92.
A beautiful plaque was unveiled at the ceremony honoring Mrs. Basile as a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and faithful servant of the church.
Carlo Basile, a former state representative, community leader, and proud son of East Boston, delivered a beautiful, hearfelt speech on behalf of the family.
“I want to thank my brothers for being my inspiration for always guiding me to do the right thing ever since I was a kid,” said Carlo. “Particularly I’d like to thank a couple of people who were so spiritual to me, my friends, Michael Basile, and [State Rep.] Jeff Turco. These two men brought me back to God when I had doubt. We met here every morning at the garden and prayed. We cried together, we laughed together, and we talked about what life was really about.”
Contuing his speech, Carlo said, “When my mother got sick, I told her what we were doing here. But she didn’t get to see it because she passed away on March 26. I consider this [the rededication in memory of his mother] such a special honor. On behalf of me and my family, my children, Carlo and Christian, who are my life, I want to thank everybody who had their hand on this [project]. I didn’t do this alone. I did this with the community. It was done with my family’s blessings. My mother was somebody that loved her family so hard, to the point where she sacrificed anything and all for her children and her family. So with that being said, I just want to thank everybody who had a hand on this. Thank you for being here tonight. I hope you and your families will enjoy this observatory for years to come. God bless you.”