Top 10 Casinos on Earth

A casino is a building where various games of chance are played. Gambling has existed in some form as long as people have recorded history, with primitive protodice and carved six-sided dice in ancient archaeological sites [Source: Schwartz]. However, the casino itself is relatively modern, emerging in the 16th century as a gambling craze spread throughout Europe and Italian nobles began holding private parties in facilities known as ridotti. Rather than being public houses, these were private clubs for members to gamble and enjoy themselves, though they were technically illegal.

By the 1950s, organized crime figures had enough money to take over some casinos in Nevada and elsewhere, but federal crackdowns on mob involvement have forced these gangsters out of business. Real estate investors and hotel chains with deep pockets now run many casinos. They have invested heavily in sophisticated security systems such as “chip tracking,” which electronically monitors betting chips to discover any statistical deviation from expected results. They also invest in automated machines that are completely enclosed and run without dealers, with bettors simply pushing buttons on the machines.

In addition to the glitz and glamor of these temples to temptation, they have plenty of slots and felt tables where patrons can play cards, roulette, and blackjack. Whether you’re a high-roller or just a casual player, these ten casinos are the best places on earth to play your luck.