A casino is a place where people can gamble and watch games of chance. The games usually include cards, dice, and a mechanical device such as a roulette wheel. Some casinos offer a variety of tables and slots, while others specialize in one particular game. Most casinos are located in tourist destinations, and some even combine gambling with world-class restaurants, shopping, and spas.
Gambling has been a part of human civilization for millennia. Archeological evidence shows that the Chinese invented table games like baccarat in 2300 BC, and dice made their way to Rome by 500 AD. Despite these early examples, the casino as we know it today is a relatively modern invention.
Casinos have a high level of security because of the large amounts of money handled in them. Often, security is divided into a physical force that patrols the casino floor and a specialized surveillance department that monitors the closed circuit television system. These two departments work closely together and are quick to respond to calls for help or definite signs of criminal activity.
In addition to security, casinos are also concerned with ensuring that the games are fair for their patrons. This is why they hire croupiers to oversee each game. Moreover, they use electronic devices that allow them to track the amount of money wagered minute by minute and warn them when statistical deviations occur. The casinos also have catwalks that allow surveillance personnel to look down on the table and slot machines through one-way glass.
