In this age of fast-moving online casinos as seen on casinos.com, many players may not realise there’s a long and colourful history of physical casinos around the world.
Most surprisingly few of today’s enthusiastic casino players do not know the name or location of the oldest casino.
And it’s not in Las Vegas or Monte Carlo – but in one of the prettiest historical tourist attractions on the planet.
The oldest casino in the world is widely agreed to be the Casino di Venezia in Venice, Italy.
The venue was first established back in 1638 and is still in operation today. The Venice Casino began almost 400 years ago as a meeting place for the wealthy Venetian nobility to gather during the annual carnival season.
Later as tastes changed, it became a licensed gambling house for these noblemen in 1744. Over the centuries, the Casino di Venezia has undergone various physical renovations and expansions but it still retains its historic charm.
The casino is one of the few in the world that is easier to reach by boat than car. With its canal-side location and massive history, it remains one of the most prestigious and iconic casinos in the world.
Before the age of the internet historic casinos like this were more celebrated than today. Here are a few other examples:
Casino de Spa
This old gaming venue is located in genteel Spa, Belgium. Along with the Venice Casino, the Spa Casino is considered one of the oldest gambling venues in the world.
The Spa Casino was established in 1763 – and it still continues to operate today.
Casino Baden-Baden
The Casino Baden-Baden dates back to 1824. It stands in a leafy German spa town among attractive period buildings.
The casino is still functioning and is known for its luxurious ambiance. Over the decades it has often been frequented by famous personalities.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
The casino on ‘Mount Charles’ in the tiny Mediterranean state of Monaco, is one the world’s most famous casinos.
It’s a renowned gambling establishment that opened in 1863. The clifftop casino is known for its opulent architecture and cultural events like musical premiers.
As well as being the venue of the famous events of the true story of the Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo the casino featured in the first worldwide hit song.
This was a music hall ditty called The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo, sung by Charles Coborn, in the 1890s. The famous venue has appeared in numerous films and novels too.
Kurhaus of Wiesbaden
This combination of spa resort and casino is located in the spa town of Wiesbaden in Germany. The casino was established in 1810 and is another that is known for its elegant setting.
Casino Estoril
This coastal casino is in the resort of Estoril, just outside the capital Lisbon in Portugal.
The Casino Estoril opened its doors in 1916. Then it later gained fame during World War II as a gathering place for spies in neutral Portugal.
Today it is still operating and is considered one of the largest physical casinos in Europe.
All over the world, old and historic casinos have stood the test of time and continue to attract visitors.
While online gambling has gained popularity in recent years, physical casinos still have a special in the entertainment industry.
Industry experts have long predicted the demise of old-style bricks-and-mortar casinos but they continue to survive.
This is due to the unique experience they can provide. It’s an immersive gaming sensation that is hard to replicate online.
The atmosphere, social interaction and glamour of being in a casino are still only available in the flesh.
Physical casinos also often provide other entertainment options like live shows, concerts, fine dining and luxurious accommodation. These additional facilities create a complete package that online platforms cant match.
Casinos are social places where people gather, socialize and enjoy the company of others. For many players, the social aspect of a physical casino cannot be fully experienced online.
While online gaming platforms have made significant advancements in terms of security and trustworthiness, some individuals still prefer the peace of mind that comes with physically being present in a casino and handling real chips and cards.
Don’t forget that online gambling can be subject to legal restrictions and regulations in different areas. In some places the old physical casinos, on the other hand, may have established a legal presence and can cater to local players.
So while the online gambling industry has quickly grown in popularity and convenience, physical casinos offer a different experience.
They continue to attract customers who seek the social ambiance, historic atmosphere and unique entertainment options they provide. Industry experts now admit both online and physical casinos are likely to continue, each catering to different players and experiences.