A casino (also known as a gaming house or a gambling establishment) is an establishment that offers various types of gambling. Modern casinos usually combine gambling with other entertainment activities, such as shows or restaurants. Some casinos also offer sports betting and horse racing. In some countries, casinos are licensed to operate by local government authorities.
The precise history of gambling is unclear, but it can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. Modern gambling facilities include a variety of casino games such as blackjack, roulette, poker, craps, and slot machines. Some casinos are located in luxury hotels and resorts, while others stand alone. Many modern casinos employ advanced security measures to protect players and their assets. These measures can include a physical security force and specialized surveillance departments. Some casinos use closed circuit television systems to monitor patrons, and some have catwalks over the gaming floor where surveillance personnel can look down on the activities of the tables and machines.
The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden was once a playground for European royalty and the aristocracy. Today, it still draws visitors who want to test their luck in its elegantly decorated casino. The casino’s red-and-gold poker rooms and blackjack tables are reminiscent of the glamorous days of Marlene Dietrich, who once declared it to be the most beautiful casino in the world. The casino is owned by the Société des Bains de Mer, which is an affiliate of Las Vegas Sands.