The city of Rio de Janeiro abounds with social clubs, many of which have existed since the mid-19th Century. These clubs have a strong cultural heritage as lasting features of the city's social landscape. They have endured great periods of change and development, including the decline of the empire and the formation of the Republic.

social clubs are spaces of great cultural exploration and manifestation, often hosting events related to literature, art, music, sports, politics and more.  as such, The Club Naval (Naval Club), is one such institution, with bases in Centro, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon) and Niterói.