G.R.E.S. Imperatriz Leopoldinense

G.R.E.S. Imperatriz Leopoldinense is a famous samba school based in the Ramos neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, founded on March 6, 1956 (or 1959, as some sources say) and named in honor of Maria Leopoldina, the Archduchess of Austria and Empress of Brazil. Known simply as Imperatriz, the school has a prestigious history in the Rio Carnival’s Grupo Especial (Special Group), winning the championship eight times, including an impressive three consecutive wins from 1999 to 2001.

The school's colors are green, gold, and white, symbolized by a golden crown, reflecting its regal name and spirit. Imperatriz Leopoldinense is celebrated for its artistic, sophisticated, and imaginative parade themes that often incorporate historical, cultural, and social topics. Its performances are known for their refinement and spectacular floats, making it one of the top contenders in the elite samba league of Rio’s carnival. The school also engages deeply with samba traditions and competitions, where selecting the annual samba-enredo (theme song) is a highly significant event.

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