Casino is a gambling establishment that offers a variety of games of chance and skill. Usually, players wager monetary value on the outcome of a game of chance or skill, and the casino keeps a percentage of the total amount bet (known as the house edge). Casinos also offer complimentary items or comps to big spenders.

The precise origin of gambling is unknown, but it is believed to have existed in almost every culture throughout history. Modern casinos are designed to provide gamblers with an experience that is exciting and aesthetically pleasing, and are often themed around a particular city or country. Las Vegas is the most famous casino in the world, but there are many others.

In the United States, many casinos are owned by organized crime figures who use the proceeds from their illegal rackets to fund them. Mafia money gave a boost to Reno and Las Vegas during the 1950s, but it was soon replaced by capital from real estate developers and hotel chains. These companies had more money than the mobsters and did not have to worry about mob interference, which could jeopardize their gaming licenses.

Due to the large amounts of currency handled within a casino, staff and patrons may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. To prevent this, casinos employ a number of security measures. These include security cameras, and some have specially trained personnel to spot suspicious behavior.