A casino is a place where people can play a variety of games of chance for money. It usually provides a number of luxuries to attract customers, including restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. However, it is possible to find less elaborate establishments that house gambling activities and are called casinos as well.
Although gambling probably existed long before recorded history, the modern casino as a place for people to gamble under one roof did not develop until the 16th century. During this time, a gambling craze swept Europe, and Italian aristocrats often held parties at places known as ridotti (private clubs) where gambling was the main activity. The ridotti were technically illegal, but they were rarely bothered by the authorities, and they grew in popularity.
Table games are a group of games that require strategic thinking and decision-making skills as players try their luck against each other or against the house. Typically, they are played on a flat surface like a table and involve cards, dice or a wheel. They are normally conducted by a live dealer who manages the game.
The most famous casinos in the world are renowned for their elegance and glamour, as well as their array of luxury facilities and services. The Bellagio in Las Vegas is perhaps the most recognizable, thanks to its iconic fountain show and luxurious accommodations. But there are many other great casinos to choose from, from the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco to the Casino Baden-Baden in Germany.