The history of gambling dates back thousands of years and researchers have found the mention of gambling in the oldest literature of the Indians, Chinese, Greeks, Romans, and others.
Archeologists have discovered the art of gambling on old monuments in the archaeological sites of civilizations and dice that are over four thousand years old. There are mentions of tile games found in Chinese civilization in 2100 BC.
A few interesting tales that are popular are that children in Rome were allowed to learn dice games and gamble to earn money. In primitive times, there were gambling houses that were exclusively created for the fun and entertainment of the executive class.
Let’s have a look at the top 5 oldest casinos in the world:
1. Casinò di Venezia
This is a popular casino in Venice, Italy, and is regarded as one of the oldest casinos in the world that is still operating. Experts suggest that it was constructed for the royals of Venice in 1509 but it turned into a gambling house in 1638. These types of gambling houses are referred to as ‘ridotti’ or ‘ridotto’ in Italy, meaning “private rooms”.
The architecture and structure of Casinò di Venezia is a fantastic and amazing work of art. It is constructed from marble and sculptures with chandeliers. The ambience is luxurious and one feels like they are taking a trip through the awesome history when visiting this exclusive casino.
One can visit Casinò di Venezia by water taxi or by gondola. This casino depicts another popular name of Venice; ‘The City of Canals.’ It is famous for hosting interesting tournaments for casino players such as ‘The Venice Carnival.’
2. Casino Wiesbaden
This casino was initially constructed as the ‘Cure House’ or Kurhaus in 1810. This theme was popular during the Roman period and it was actually a spa that people used to visit to rejuvenate and refresh themselves. It has a thermal spring that is known to have a therapeutic effect on people who take a bath in it.
The construction of Casino Wiesbaden started in 1807 with the permission of Prince Charles of Nassau-Usingen. Previously, gamblers used to play card games at this casino and these were permitted by Prince Charles. After his death, other games were introduced, such as Roulette.
The blend of the casino along with the spa made this place a popular hub among people who wanted to have fun while relaxing their minds and body. Many noble people, dignitaries, artists, writers, and musicians used to visit this casino on a regular basis.
At present, this casino features about 14 table games, 200 slots, 8 poker tables, and over 20 electronic games. One can also enjoy several versions of roulette such as American Roulette, French Roulette, and Blackjack.
3. Casino de Spa
Situated in Belgium, Casino de Spa was constructed in 1763. Since then, it has undergone several renovations in the past decades. It was renovated in 1918 after it was damaged by fire during World War I but was fortunately restored to its original glory and charm.
Casino de Spa has been operated by the Circus Casino Spa Group since the early 2000s. It is still one of the most lively and dynamic hubs for casino enthusiasts to spend their time with their friends and family. The casino regularly hosts tournaments for their guests along with several other modern casino games including slots, and different versions of Blackjack, Roulette, and Poker.
The casino includes a restaurant – La Brasserie du – that was recently revamped. One can also find other awesome entertaining options there such as a ballroom, a theatre, and a cultural centre.
4. Casino de Monte Carlo
Located in Monaco, Casino de Monte Carlo is also referred to as the Grand Casino and is regarded as one of the most esteemed and momentous casinos in the world.
It has been functional since 1856 when Monaco was under the rule of Prince Florestan I and Princess Caroline. In fact, the princess was the first one who thought of constructing the casino. She offered the task to her son in order to make it a success.
The casino includes a popular poker game that was played by James Bond in a movie called Casino Royale. At present, the casino offers unique gambling with a range of casino games that include slots, table games, and poker.
5. Golden Gate Casino
This is one of the oldest casinos in Las Vegas and is situated in the center of the city on Fermont Street. Golden Gate Casino was constructed by John F. Miller who bought the property for $1,705 in 1905 when he was in the city attending the auction party.
The casino used to operate within the hotel; however, the casino was closed when the gambling ban came into force in 1909.
Golden Gate Casino has opened again in 1931 after gambling acquired legal status in Nevada, however, it was operated under a different name; Sal Sagev. Interestingly, the name is actually ‘Las Vegas’ spelled backward.
Two decades later, the property was renamed The Golden Gate Hotel and Casino and now includes more than 10 floors that host a variety of casino games.
Gambling: One of the Oldest Entertaining Activities
Gambling is one of the oldest activities that people have pursued fun and entertainment and its popularity has not faded till now.
More people indulge in gambling for fun or for making extra cash. Interestingly, with the advent of the Internet, gambling has made its mark on online platforms and you can find several top real money casinos at which you can enjoy classic and modern casino games.
