A casino (also called a gambling establishment) is a place where people can gamble on games of chance and/or skill for money or other rewards. Most casinos offer a wide variety of gaming options, including slot machines and table games. Casinos can also feature live entertainment, such as shows and concerts.
Almost all casino games have an element of luck involved, but some require considerable skill as well. A game with an element of skill typically involves a dealer or croupier who enables the game, collects and manages payments, and provides general information about the rules of the game. These dealers may be paid a commission or fee known as the rake.
Gambling has been a part of human culture for millennia, with evidence dating back to 2300 BC in China. Eventually, dice made their way to Rome in 500 AD and card games were introduced in the 1400s, including baccarat and poker. Today, there are casinos in nearly every major city in the world and gambling is legal in many countries.
Casinos are often built in the most glamorous locales, such as Venice or Monaco. The Bellagio in Las Vegas, for example, is famous for its fountain show and luxurious accommodations. However, the largest casino by square footage is in Macau, China. It is known as the City of Dreams and features more than 4,000 slot machines and 1,400 tables. The casino has also attracted a number of celebrity performers, from Elvis Presley and Rod Stewart to Celine Dion and Mariah Carey.
