Desfile das escolas de samba of Marquis de Sapucaí is recognized as intangible heritage

The desfile das escolas de samba of the Marquis de Sapucaí, one of the largest cultural symbols in Rio, has officially integrated the historical, cultural, artistic and humanistic intangible heritage of the State of Rio. Recognition was formalized by Law 11,064, published in the Official Gazette of the State on December 19, 2025.

Annually held in Passarela do Samba, in Centro do Rio, the parade is one of the main cultural postcards of the city and plays a fundamental role in Rio's identity, besides projecting Rio to Brazil and the world. The new legislation recognizes the symbolic, artistic and social value of the show, which brings together samba schools, artists, communities and millions of spectators each edition.

Considered the main stage of the Carnaval carioca, the Sambódromo of the Marquis de Sapucaí concentrates the parades of the Special Group and the other divisions, besides significantly moving the economy of the city. The event drives tourism, strengthens the creative economy and generates thousands of temporary jobs, directly impacting various sectors such as hospitality, gastronomy, transportation and services.

Over the decades, the Passarela do Samba has consolidated itself as one of the largest cultural symbols in Rio, bringing together plots that dialogue with the history of Brazil, social, religious and political themes, as well as valuing popular traditions and artistic expressions of the Rio communities.

The law entered into force on the date of its publication, ensuring the immediate recognition of the desfile das escolas de samba of the Marquis de Sapucaí as immaterial cultural heritage of the State. For the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro, the measure reinforces the importance of the Carnaval as one of the main cultural and tourist assets of the city, recognized worldwide for its creativity, diversity and ability to attract visitors from all parts of the world.