Casinos (sometimes known as gambling establishments, gambling houses or caisinos) are establishments where individuals can gamble for money in various casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps and poker. Some also provide sports books and horse racing betting sections. Gambling may only be legal in licensed and regulated casinos in some countries such as the United States.

Casinos are commonly found at resorts, hotels, cruise ships and other tourist spots; they may also be combined with restaurants, retail shops and/or entertainment facilities for added entertainment value. They employ various employees such as dealers and hostesses. Some are owned by government-related entities while others are managed by private companies – many of these same companies owning multiple leisure venues such as arenas, stadiums or convention centers as well.

Gambling has long been part of human civilization, dating back to 2300 BCE in China where dice-rolling was evidenced. Card-playing made its debut in Rome around 500 CE and modern casinos began to crop up around 1770 with baccarat’s rise to prominence. Today’s casino-goers expect more from their experience than just luck; they seek luxurious environments offering breathtaking entertainment and dining options while knowing their money is secure.

Casinos employ both security personnel and various technological tools to protect them against cheating and unethical behavior, such as video cameras that monitor every square inch of their floor; in addition, certain devices installed into tables record players’ bets made, connected with an electronic system that keeps an eye on minute-by-minute betting amounts and alerts staff of any statistical anomalies.

Most casinos make money by charging patrons a nominal fee to play at their establishment, commonly known as vig or rake fees and up to two percent of each bet placed. This money helps finance amenities like lighted fountains, elaborate hotels, replicas of famous pyramids and towers as well as replicas of historic landmarks like monuments or tombs. Furthermore, in certain jurisdictions a small percentage of casino profits may also be collected by state governments as taxes; giving casinos incentive to limit losses while optimizing revenues.