A Casino is a gambling establishment with gaming tables that offer various games of chance and in some cases skill. Some casinos also have food and drink service. Guests may gamble by playing slot machines, table games (such as blackjack and craps), or random number games such as roulette and baccarat. Casinos are regulated and monitored by the government.
Gambling in all its forms has been a part of human civilization for millennia. Evidence of early gambling can be found in 2300 BC China, and dice were used in 500 AD Rome. Card games rose in popularity during the 1400s, and by the 1500s had spread throughout Europe. Roulette and baccarat are two of the most common modern-day casino games, although other types exist.
Most casinos use surveillance systems to monitor patrons and employees for signs of cheating. These systems are designed to catch players who attempt to manipulate the games by using sleight of hand, collusion with other patrons, or otherwise trying to steal from the house. In some casinos, security cameras are mounted on catwalks above the casino floor, allowing security personnel to directly observe game play through one-way glass.
OLBG looks at some of the most famous casinos in history, starting with the world’s oldest: Casino di Venezia. The ancient casino is set on Venice’s Grand Canal and offers free boat transportation for its visitors. In addition to the traditional gaming, the casino features a full sports book with 60 large plasma tv’s and accepts bets on American football, boxing and soccer.