A casino is a gambling establishment that offers the possibility of winning money from games of chance and, in some cases, skill. It is a popular activity in many countries, and is regulated by law. Casinos have a number of security measures to prevent cheating and theft. Some even have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look down, through one-way glass, on patrons’ activities.
Most casinos offer gambling on their premises and some also have restaurants, bars, shows, and shopping malls. The Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, for example, is a mega-casino that houses over 1600 slot machines and 500 table games. It also has a theatre, a museum, a shopping center, and over 2,500 rooms to choose from.
Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia, with evidence dating back to 2300 BC China. Dice first appeared around 500 BC, and playing cards rose to prominence in the 1400s. Card games are the most common form of gambling in modern casinos. These include blackjack, baccarat, and chemin de fer (in the United Kingdom) or trente et quarante in France. Casinos make their profits from a commission taken from the players’ pots or by charging hourly fees.
In the past, many casinos were located in palaces or other grand buildings. The Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco, for instance, is a famous landmark. It has also been featured in several movies, television shows, and novels. The most famous story, however, centers on the exploits of MIT students who beat the casino out of nearly $1 million in 1996.
Although some people view casinos as sinful, they are a popular source of recreation and entertainment for millions of people. They may also provide a source of income for poorer nations. However, some people find the gambling experience emotionally draining and addictive. The legality of casino gambling is controversial, and varies from country to country.
The most famous casino destinations are Las Vegas, Macau, and Atlantic City. Las Vegas is the most recognizable, with its numerous casinos and flashing lights. It has even been the setting for several movies and tv shows. It has also become a tourist destination for its nightlife and shopping malls.
Macau is quickly becoming Asia’s casino capital. Its newer casinos are massive, and some are even modeled after the famous Venetian in Las Vegas. The newest is The Venetian Macau, which boasts the biggest gambling area on earth, at 550,000 square feet. It also has a canal with bridges and gondolas, a sports arena, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
OLBG took a look at 10 of the world’s most famous casinos and determined which ones made an indelible mark on the gaming industry. They are listed below by opening date.
