the cidade do samba (samba city) is located on the waterfront in gamboa, just north of downtown. it is in this complex that the most prominent samba schools (those of grupo especial) prepare their floats before the carnaval samba parade.
it was constructed by the city of rio in 2005 in order to bring all the schools under one roof and at the same time provide a place where visitors can see all of the 'behind-the-scenes' preparation that goes into the annual competition.
small samba shows are also held here, particularly before carnaval, ostensibly so the schools can practice a bit before the contest.
cidade do samba, rua rivadávia corręa, 60, gamboa, tel. 021.2213.2503 - here is the website and map ● more ●
