Whether you’re looking to throw your chips in the air or place bets that will make you richer, gamblers from all over the world travel to these decadent temples of temptation. Decked out in opulent furnishings and overflowing bars, these casinos elevate gambling to an art form.
The exact origin of gambling is unknown, but it’s been a part of human culture for millennia in one form or another. The first evidence of the activity dates back to 2300 BC in China, when archaeologists discovered wooden blocks used in games of chance. Dice and playing cards followed, and by the 1400s, baccarat had made its debut.
Modern technology has brought new wrinkles to casino play. For example, some casinos have catwalks soaring above the floor that allow surveillance personnel to look down through one-way glass at what’s happening on the tables and slot machines below. Some even use special sensors to detect statistical deviations in the odds on their slot machines.
Some of the most iconic casinos in the world are located in exotic locations, such as the Mauro Codussi-designed Casino di Venezia, which sits on Venice’s Grand Canals and can only be reached by water or by boat. Then there’s the Hotel Lisboa in Macao, which looms over the city skyline and is crowned by the world’s largest LED dome.
And while you may not be able to win a jackpot like the one at the Bellagio, it’s still fun to try your luck. So pull up a seat at these 10 casinos that have made an indelible mark on the gambling landscape.
