A casino is a building or room in which people play gambling games, such as roulette, blackjack, and poker. The casino industry is regulated by law and, in some countries, it is illegal to operate a casino without a license. Casinos also offer other entertainment options, such as shows and restaurants. People who visit casinos are typically of legal age to gamble and are encouraged to participate in responsible gaming.
The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it has been a part of human culture for millennia. Evidence of gambling has been found in China as early as 2300 BCE, and it later spread to ancient Rome, where a game called baccarat became popular. Modern casinos offer a wide range of casino games, including slot machines and table games like poker and blackjack. Some casinos even have sportsbooks.
In addition to offering a variety of gambling opportunities, many casinos have impressive entertainment venues that draw big-name entertainers. The renowned Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, for example, has had residencies for such legends as Frank Sinatra and Elton John.
The large amount of money handled within a casino can make it vulnerable to theft, either in collusion between patrons or by employees. To combat this, most casinos have security measures in place. These include a physical security force and specialized surveillance departments. They work closely together to prevent crime and keep guests safe. They also employ mathematicians to develop house edges and variance calculations for their various games.