Casinos have a long and colourful history, dating back centuries. From ancient dice games to the bustling online casinos of today, here are some fascinating facts about how it all began.
The word casino comes from the Italian word for “little house,” originally referring to small villas used for social activities, including games and dancing.
One of the first official casinos was the Casino di Venezia, which opened in 1638 in Venice, Italy. It’s still in operation today and is considered the oldest active casino in the world.
In the 1800s, Monte Carlo became famous for its glamorous casino, attracting aristocrats and royalty. It helped establish gambling as a luxury pastime.
Las Vegas rose to prominence in the 20th century, thanks to relaxed gambling laws and massive investment. It’s now one of the most famous casino cities on the planet, drawing millions of visitors each year.
The rise of the internet in the 1990s led to the first online casinos, which revolutionised gambling by making it accessible 24/7 from anywhere in the world.
Today, with the rise of mobile apps and live dealer games, players can enjoy an immersive experience without ever leaving home.
Casinos have come a long way—from candle-lit card rooms to high-tech digital platforms—and the evolution shows no signs of slowing down.
18+ gambleaware.org