A casino is a place where gambling activities take place. It also offers a wide variety of other amenities to its patrons, such as restaurants, bars and shops. It is also a major tourist attraction. Some casinos have a historic and charming atmosphere while others are glass-and-steel temples of overindulgence. In addition to gaming, casinos are often known for their entertainment venues and live performances.

While gambling probably predates recorded history, the modern casino is a fairly recent invention. They first appeared in the 16th century during a gambling craze that swept Europe. These early casinos were called ridotti and were essentially private clubs for the rich. They were not legal, but the aristocracy rarely let that stop them from enjoying themselves and gambling.

Most casino games involve some element of skill, but the house always has a decided advantage. This is because the odds of a game are mathematically determined, and thus always negative for the player. While most games do not require much skill, there are exceptions, such as poker, where a player’s knowledge and experience can make a significant difference in his or her chances of winning.

Casino security is a big part of their business, and they have many measures in place to prevent cheating or crime. They usually have a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. The latter operates the casino’s closed circuit television system, which is sometimes referred to as the eye in the sky. Cameras are placed in the ceiling and can be adjusted to focus on specific tables or suspicious patrons.