madonna queen national shrine
Across from the Don Orione Home in East Boston stands a statue of the Madonna 35 feet high made of copper and bronze. It was erected in May of 1954, the Marian Year, and was greeted by thousands of worshippers. Its story dates back to World War II when the famous Jewish sculptor Arrigo Minerbi was welcomed to refuge in the Don Orione's Institution in Rome during the Nazi persecution against Jews. After the liberation, Minerbi created a statue of the Madonna as a gift to the Don Orione Fathers and personal thanksgiving for surviving the war. It was placed on the hill of Montemario overlooking the city of Rome. Soon after, a replica of the six-ton masterpiece was made and shipped to the Don Orione Fathers in East Boston in three pieces. It was reconstructed and dedicated as "The Madonna Queen of the Universe" by Archbishop Cushing. The shrine and serene statue greet visitors year-round. Mass is said Saturdays at 5:00 pm, Sundays at 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, and weekdays at 7:30 pm. The gift shop is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Located at 150 Orient Avenue, take Route 1-A, turn at the cross on the hill and follow the signs.
madonna queen national shrine
Across from the Don Orione Home in East Boston stands a statue of the Madonna 35 feet high made of copper and bronze. It was erected in May of 1954, the Marian Year, and was greeted by thousands of worshippers. Its story dates back to World War II when the famous Jewish sculptor Arrigo Minerbi was welcomed to refuge in the Don Orione's Institution in Rome during the Nazi persecution against Jews. After the liberation, Minerbi created a statue of the Madonna as a gift to the Don Orione Fathers and personal thanksgiving for surviving the war. It was placed on the hill of Montemario overlooking the city of Rome. Soon after, a replica of the six-ton masterpiece was made and shipped to the Don Orione Fathers in East Boston in three pieces. It was reconstructed and dedicated as "The Madonna Queen of the Universe" by Archbishop Cushing. The shrine and serene statue greet visitors year-round. Mass is said Saturdays at 5:00 pm, Sundays at 11:00 am and 5:00 pm, and weekdays at 7:30 pm. The gift shop is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Located at 150 Orient Avenue, take Route 1-A, turn at the cross on the hill and follow the signs.