A casino is a gambling establishment that offers various games of chance and provides a variety of other luxuries to attract visitors. While musical shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers help draw in crowds, casinos would not exist without their primary source of income: gambling. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette and craps account for the billions of dollars in profits that casinos rake in every year.

The word “casino” is derived from Italian, and it can mean either a small public hall for music and dancing or a collection of gaming or gambling rooms. The earliest known casino was in the principality of Monaco, which opened in 1863.

Its modern sense is closely associated with Las Vegas, although there are more than a dozen other major casinos around the world. They all feature a variety of gambling activities and upscale amenities, such as fine dining, spas and opulent suites.

Some of the world’s largest casinos have become entertainment and tourism attractions in their own right, with some featuring multi-level buildings, elaborate themes and spectacular settings. Others serve as financial hubs, with a full range of banking and other services to meet the needs of patrons.

Because of the large amounts of money handled, casino security is an important issue. Staff watch for signs of cheating or theft by patrons and other players, either in collusion or independently; the use of closed-circuit television is standard. Other methods of security include physical guards and specialized departments that oversee surveillance equipment.