Here at Cidade do Samba dreams take flight. Imagine being surrounded by the energy of Rio’s Carnival all year round. This is Cidade do Samba Joãosinho Trinta.
Cidade do Samba is not just a place. It is where the magic of Carnival comes to life. It is a complex of buildings in Gamboa. This is where samba schools prepare. They create the elaborate costumes and floats that parade through the Sambadrome.
The genesis of Cidade do Samba dates back to 2006. In 2011 it was renamed Cidade do Samba Joãosinho Trinta. This was a tribute to the late carnival designer. The Independent League of Samba Schools of Rio de Janeiro owns it.
The architectural concept was by Vitor Wanderley and João Uchôa. They sought to integrate the structure with the port’s warehouses. This was a nod to the area’s industrial past. The goal was to promote tourism and entertainment year-round.
Fourteen major samba schools have warehouses here. Each warehouse has four floors. Floats are assembled on the first floor. You will find metalwork carpentry glasswork services there. Upper floors host administrative and creative spaces. There are spaces for fitting costumes. There are spaces for meetings. There are spaces for the president of each samba school.
In 2011 a fire broke out. It destroyed costumes and floats. About 8400 costumes and twenty floats were lost.
The external area features a walkway. From here you can view inside the warehouses. You can watch technical parades. The central area has leisure spots. There are bars restaurants and stages for shows.
Before Cidade do Samba transporting floats was difficult. Some floats are up to 10 meters high. Some floats are 12 meters long. Imagine pushing these through Rio.
Today Cidade do Samba is a hub of activity. The Samba schools work tirelessly. They prepare for Carnival. They create a spectacle. They share Afro-Brazilian culture with the world.
So, the next time you witness the grandeur of Rio’s Carnival remember Cidade do Samba. Remember the passion and dedication within these walls. Remember Cidade do Samba Joãosinho Trinta.