the cidade do samba is located on the waterfront in gamboa, just north of downtown, on rua rivadávia corrêa, 60.

it is in this complex that the most prominent samba schools, those of grupo especial, prepare their floats before the carnaval samba parades.

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 that the schools can practice a bit before the contest.