The purpose of this work is to understand the meaning of Grêmio Recreativo Escola de Samba Portela, as one of the main representations of the suburban district of Madureira. Samba Schools are important instruments of identity and representation of the places where they are situated. Portela is a symbol of Madureira, which gives it a singular identity, from its velha guarda – the oldest ones (custodians of its traditions) -, the rehearsal area, the Portelão, its colours and symbols (like the eagle) which are part of the identity of Portela. There is a marked symbiosis between Madureira and Portela, because of the reflexibility between the blue and white group and the carioca suburban district, with one taking over the other.