Gambling is a pastime that really is as old as time. We all love a night out at the casino, dressing to the nines and taking a spin on the roulette wheel and at the same time, these days, it’s easier than ever to load up a casino app and take a spin on the slots.
Of course, gambling has changed dramatically since those early days, when the one-armed bandit was housed in saloons and the high-stakes roulette games were only for the wealthy. Today, we’re more likely to be watching the wheels spin of Steampunk Roulette VIP, or immersing ourselves in live dealer games online. However, that doesn’t mean we should simply go all-in on the online element of casino gaming, far from it.
While online casino games are perfect for a quick game or an evening session when you don’t quite want to leave the house, brick-and-mortar casinos are still standing the test of time, and there’s a few that really are steeped in history.
We take a look at some of the oldest casinos still in existence today from around the world…
Casinò di Venezia
Casino di Venezia is the oldest casino in the world. Located in Venice and situated on the Grand Canal, you can still play there in what is a must for anyone visiting the city that wants a taste of what it was like to enjoy casino games in years gone by.
Still as opulent as ever, the casino itself was built in 1638 and is architecturally stunning. In truth, few casinos can beat it. A former palace, it was used as a home for many of Europe’s most prominent and elite people, while it continued to serve them upon its transformation into a casino.
To add further to the sophistication of it, the best way to visit the casino is via gondola.
Casino de Spa
Located in Wallonia, one of the three regions of Belgium, Casino de Spa is a purpose built spa that offers a wealth of services, including a casino, and has done since 1763.
It’s just a 20-minute drive from the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps which hosts the Belgian Grand Prix and as well as the gaming offers a spa, beautiful hotel rooms and fine dining.
However, what is worth noting is that while the casino has been there since the 1700s, it was flattened during the First World War, requiring a complete rebuild. It was rebuilt in 1918, still making it an incredibly old casino, while it was also renovated in the 1980s.
Still, for anyone wanting to get a taste of some classic gaming, it’s well worth a visit.
Kurhaus Casino of Baden-Baden
This casino is how gaming should be. It’s luxury to the core, with neo-classical designs and architecture that is fit for royalty. Opening in the mid 1820s, the casino in Baden-Baden, Germany has always been a popular haunt for the international jetset, benefitting from the gambling ban in France.
Many would cross the border into Germany to enjoy their favourite casino games, while its location on the outskirts of the Black Forest, and on the border of France helped it become a perfect, secluded spot for people to get away and come to play.
It’s still open to this day and offers up one of the most unique casino experiences there is.
Casino de Monte Carlo
Everyone knows the Casino de Monte Carlo. It’s perhaps the most famous casino on the planet. But it is also one of the oldest. Built in 1856 in order for the House of Grimaldi to make enough money to avoid going bankrupt, it quickly made a name for itself and saw the elite from all over the world touch down in Monaco in order to play.
To this day you’ll still find some of the most affluent gamblers around playing here, while it’s also commonly featured in films and TV shows again showcasing just how luxurious the gaming experience there is.