Casino (also known as a gambling house or a gaming establishment) is an establishment where people can gamble and place bets on various events. Most casinos offer a wide variety of gambling games, including roulette, blackjack, craps, and poker. Some also have more exotic games, such as Asian-style table games such as sic bo and fan-tan. Some casinos serve food and drink, as well as offering a full range of other amenities.
The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has existed in many societies throughout the world for millennia. The first documented evidence dates from 2300 BC China, where wooden blocks used in the game were discovered. Other archaeological finds have linked gambling to the Ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks and Romans.
In modern times, the most famous casino is probably the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco, which opened in 1863 and has become a landmark for visitors to the city. The casino is a major source of income for the country, generating more than a billion euros annually.
Most casinos feature security measures to prevent cheating and stealing, both between patrons and casino staff. This includes a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. Some casinos also have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look directly down, through one-way glass, on the casino floor and the activities of slot machines and tables. Other methods of surveillance include closed circuit television and audio. Most casinos also monitor their security cameras, and these can be used as evidence in court.