A casino is a place where people can gamble and play games of chance. It is a popular activity and can be found in many places such as resorts, hotels, restaurants and cruise ships. The word casino can also refer to a specific building or room where gambling takes place. Casinos are often large, luxurious facilities with multiple gaming tables and machines. They may offer a variety of other entertainment as well, such as stage shows and dramatic scenery.
While gambling likely predates recorded history, the casino as a central hub for a variety of different kinds of betting did not develop until the 16th century. Prior to that, people who wanted to place bets had to go to individual establishments for each type of game they wished to play. The term casino was originally used to describe a small clubhouse for Italian aristocrats, where they would hold social events and gamble [Source: Poley].
Gambling is not without its risks. Both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion with each other or independently. Therefore, casinos employ a variety of security measures. The most basic is to have security cameras throughout the facility. More elaborate systems include catwalks in the ceiling that allow security personnel to look down, through one-way glass, on each table and slot machine. In addition, pit bosses and table managers keep an eye on each player to make sure they aren’t stealing chips or rigging the games in any way.