The story of gambling is as long as the history of humanity. During archaeological excavations, scientists discovered analogs of dice used before our era. It is considered that these attributes were needed for magical rituals and divination, and afterward, they became part of gambling entertainment. During Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome times, a tradition of gambling was developed. In the 6th century BC, a special institution called “The Circus” was opened, where guests could play dice and place stakes for real money.  

However, in every corner of the world, there was a place where an avid player could place a bet and get a big win. It would be difficult to determine the very first casino in the world, so in this article, we will focus on the most popular theories of casino emergence. Besides, we invite you to learn more about the blackjack chart by following the link, which will be very useful in case you want to play this game in modern online casinos.

Venice (17th century)

In Italy, the term “casino” primarily means a “small house.” This name is explained by the fact that the first establishments of this kind were opened in private homes. In addition to gambling, the public was entertained by music, dancing, food, and drinks.

The “modern” stage of gambling development began in Renaissance time in Italy. Establishments offering card games began to gain incredible popularity. It is considered that the first legal casino was opened in Venice in the middle of the 17th century. It was called Il Ridotto. It is believed that Il Ridotto was opened for the entertainment of people during the Venetian carnival period. Only noble, wealthy people who were able to bet huge sums could come to this institution. The institution had a strict dress code and certain rules of conduct. The state benefited from the existence of Il Ridotto as its owners paid high taxes. But over time, the institution was closed. The decisive role in this matter was played by the church, which expressed a negative attitude towards the entertainment of this kind. As a result, the state passed laws prohibiting the conduct of any kind of gambling.

France (18th century)

Despite condemnation by the church, as well as bans from the authorities, casinos began to spread at an incredible speed outside of Italy. In the second half of the 18th century, the first casino was opened in France. Thus, Minister Giulio Mazarin planned to replenish the treasury through new tax revenues. The French fell in love with gambling entertainment, especially roulette, which became a novelty, never seen before in this institution.

However, such establishments were opened not only in France and Italy. Gradually, casinos started to appear throughout Europe. Wealthy people who could make considerable bets could come here. Due to the popularity of gambling, the prize fund was large enough to attract more and more visitors.

Monaco (19th century)

The heyday of European gambling occurred in the 19th century. These were not small halls in private homes of wealthy people but huge rooms with luxurious interiors and impeccable service. The top of society gathered here to communicate with friends and discuss pressing political issues. Those who preferred games for big money were invited to separate rooms where parties were held for the elite. However, despite the huge popularity among wealthy citizens, by the end of the 19th century, most institutions of this kind had been closed. The only place where you could still relax with your favorite game was Monte Carlo. It is the administrative territory of the Principality of Monaco. There were no gambling bans.

The United States (20th century)

As for the United States of America, the gambling business also developed there, but not as fast as in Europe. Over time, it became possible to create the unofficial world capital of gambling – Las Vegas. This is the place where many round-the-clock casinos and other entertainment facilities are located today. There are restaurants, hotels, museums, shopping centers, sports arenas, art galleries, and exhibition halls. World-class artists perform at concert venues in this magnificent city.

This is what the history of the first casinos looks like. If you could visit any of them, which one would you choose? Share your ideas with us in the comments.