The term Casino is synonymous with gambling and a variety of entertainment that takes place in one of these gaming rooms. Although casinos have a variety of amenities that help draw in the crowds, most of their profits come from gambling. This article will take a look at how casinos make their money, the history behind them and some of the most popular games.

Gambling probably predates recorded history, with primitive protodice and carved knuckle bones found in archaeological sites [Source: Schwartz]. The casino as an establishment where patrons can find various ways to gamble under one roof didn’t develop until the 16th century. That’s when it became popular for Italian aristocrats to hold private parties at venues called ridotti [Source: Schwartz]. These were basically small clubhouses where gambling was the primary focus. As this craze spread throughout Europe, the idea of a large public casino was born.

The modern casino is a massive, glass-and-steel temple of overindulgence that features restaurants, bars, shops and even hotels. While the majority of its appeal comes from gambling, it also offers a variety of entertainment and services that make the experience more pleasant for the visitors. Some of these include a theater and a dance floor, an aquatic display brimming with marine life and other amenities to make the visit fun for non-gamblers as well. In addition, the casino’s employees and guests may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. For this reason, most casinos employ a number of security measures to deter this behavior.