Throughout history, certain casinos have not only defined the world of gaming but have also become iconic landmarks, each with its own unique story and lasting legacy.

4oCasino di Venezia, Italy: Recognized as the world’s first casino, Casino di Venezia laid the foundation for modern-day casinos. Originally owned by the government, it was housed in Il Ridotto, a section of Palazzo Dandolo. Although it was accessible to the public, only the wealthy nobility could afford to participate in the games. The government eventually shut it down, believing it was contributing to the financial decline of the aristocracy. Today, Casino di Venezia still operates, but not in its original building. A new, stylish version of the casino was opened in the 1950s at a different location, continuing the tradition established by Il Ridotto.

Casino de Spa, Belgium, 1763: The Casino de Spa was built in 1763 with the intention of introducing a luxurious lifestyle to the city and attracting wealthy nobility through gaming, dining, and theater. Over its tumultuous history, the casino was plagued by several fires, with the most devastating one occurring in 1917. After this disaster, it took nearly a decade to rebuild the casino. In 1980, the casino underwent further renovation, restoring it to its original foundations and modernizing it for contemporary visitors. Located strategically between Brussels, Luxembourg, Bonn, and Aix-la-Chapelle, the Casino de Spa remains a popular destination in the region.

Casino de Monte Carlo, Monaco, 1863: When people think of casinos, Monte Carlo often comes to mind, especially due to its association with the Bond film “Casino Royale.” The Grand Casino is one of the most renowned in the world. The idea for the casino was conceived by Princess Charlotte, who hoped its revenues would help rescue the Grimaldi family from financial troubles. Despite initial challenges, such as limited access to Monte Carlo, the casino eventually succeeded in fulfilling Princess Charlotte’s vision. Since its opening in 1863, it has remained one of the main sources of income for the Grimaldi royal family.

The Golden Gate Casino, Las Vegas, 1906: The Golden Gate Casino holds the distinction of being the oldest casino in Las Vegas. It first opened in 1906 and quickly expanded within its first year. However, in 1909, gambling was banned in Las Vegas, and the building primarily functioned as a hotel. When gambling was legalized again in 1931, the establishment expanded further. Originally named Hotel Nevada, it was later called Sal Sagev (Las Vegas spelled backward) and eventually became known as the Golden Gate. This historic building was home to many “firsts” in Las Vegas, including the first telephone, the first hotel structure, and the first lodging with plumbing.