Covilhã Association

Our History

Founded on March 13, 1913, by dissenting members of Clube União, which was a club frequented by industrialists and the upper classes of Covilhã. The exact reasons for their departure are unknown, but it is believed that one of the main factors may have been a request for greater openness to society, particularly to the upper middle class, which could include merchants, bankers, designers, senior municipal officials and wealthy people.

It naturally became an elitist club, where access conditions were methodically and exhaustively analyzed to ensure that whoever entered this club provided guarantees of security, integrity, financial capacity, boldness and above all contributed to the enhancement of Gimnásio Clube.

It was the first club to have a revolving door and at the entrance a properly uniformed employee who controlled entrances and exits.

Possibly during the 1950s, the facilities were the target of a fire, which caused partial destruction of the building, which, at great cost, was rebuilt and has been maintained to this day.

1913

Sports Activities

In terms of sports, it began with fencing, a fundamental theme of its heraldry, followed by several other activities such as indoor football, athletics, snooker, table football, chess, cards, checkers, among others.

In checkers, it stood out with the organization of dozens of national championships, where it was a reference. It created several local, district and regional champions.

Currently, in chess, it has reactivated its section that had been inactive for about fifteen years, competing at National, Regional and Local levels, with about twenty federated athletes competing. It has also recently opened the 'Chess School' to encourage the youngest to learn and enjoy the sport. It also has a project to bring chess to the municipality's schools.

Social Life

On the social front, it began by creating greater openness for members and their families, with film screenings, theater and comedies, organizing matinees for the youngest. It organized the famous Gimnásio Clube balls, where entry was very restricted and sought after by many people.

Currently it has about 230 members, most of them over seventy years old, needing some vitality and rejuvenation, but we have had the entry of some young people, based on chess, to continue voluntary associativism, for the benefit of the society that surrounds them.

Present Day

With over a century of history, Gimnásio Clube da Covilhã remains a fundamental pillar of the social and sporting life of our city, committed to community development and the formation of new generations.

Our Activities

We offer a variety of activities that promote fellowship, sports and culture

Checkers

One of our flagship sports, where we stood out with the organization of dozens of national championships and formed several local, district and regional champions.

Chess Section

Our chess section was recently reactivated, offering classes, training and competitions for all levels.

Commemorative lunches and dinners that strengthen bonds between members and celebrate important moments in our community.

Social Events

Check our schedule of events and activities

Upcoming Events

Father's Day lunch

General Assembly

Chess Tournament - 113th GCC Anniversary

March 19, 2026

Lunch at headquarters

Celebrating International Father's Day with a special lunch.

March 21, 2026

March 22, 2026

A day spent at headquarters celebrating the 113th anniversary of the GCC.

Chess Tournament Day at GCC headquarters.

Our headquarters is conveniently located in the center of Covilhã, in an easily accessible area. Look for our welcoming entrance and come up to enjoy a space dedicated to fellowship, sports and culture.

• Close to the historic center of Covilhã, with easy access to public transport

• Spacious and comfortable facilities for all Association activities and events

Visit us easily

LOCATION