The Dawn of Organized Betting
While the modern casino is a relatively recent invention, the act of gambling is as old as civilization itself. From ancient China to the Roman Empire, people have always been drawn to the thrill of risking something for a greater prize.

The First Official Casino: The Ridotto in Venice
The term "casino" derives from Italian and originally referred to a small country villa or summerhouse. The first known state-sanctioned public gambling house was the Ridotto, established in Venice, casino Italy, casino [goldfish.it] in 1638. Its purpose was to regulate the city's rampant gambling, though its high stakes meant only the wealthy could afford to play.

The Rise of European Spa Towns and Monte Carlo
The 19th century saw the spread of elegant casinos to resort towns throughout Europe. However, the most famous of all is the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco. The casino was an economic project that quickly became a symbol of luxury, glamour, and casino high-stakes gambling for the world's elite.

The American Frontier and the Las Vegas Boom
During America's westward expansion, gambling was a common pastime in the rough-and-tumble saloons of the era. By the early 1900s, anti-gambling movements had succeeded in making it illegal in most states. The turning point came in 1931 when Nevada, seeking revenue during the economic crisis, re-legalized casino gambling. From this single legislative act, Las Vegas began its journey to becoming the world-famous "Sin City."

The Latest Chapter in Casino History
The latest and perhaps most significant evolution in casino history came with the advent of the internet in the 1990s. The first online casinos emerged in the mid-90s, offering a small selection of games to a niche audience. From its humble beginnings, the online casino sector has grown into a major economic force, completely changing how people gamble.