A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Casinos are often combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, and/or other tourist attractions. In some countries, casinos are licensed by governmental bodies to operate. Many casinos have security measures to prevent cheating and stealing by patrons and employees. These include catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look down on the activities of slot machines and table games through one way glass.
The precise origins of casino gambling are unknown, but it is believed to have been a part of human culture for millennia. Evidence of gambling has been found in China as early as 2300 BC, dice were used in Rome in 500 AD, and the first known card game was played in the 1400s, baccarat.
In modern times, casinos have become entertainment centers with many offering live music and other performances, as well as restaurants, bars, and other amenities. They may also feature a wide variety of table and slot games, although some have been known to specialize in specific types of gaming. For instance, a casino in Las Vegas might be best known for its slot machines or its baccarat tables. A casino in Europe might be more notable for its poker rooms. Some American casinos are owned by Native American tribes, and their operations are independent of state laws. In addition to these, there are casinos on some cruise ships and in other countries around the world.