Words: Anna Galbraith
Gambling literally predates written human history. In Mesopotamia, the earliest six-sided dice date to about 3000 BC — but even they were based on ‘astragali’ dating back thousands of years earlier. From the gambling houses in 10th Century China, to the Persian game of As-Nas, there is no corner of the earth or moment in time that hasn’t seen humans place their stakes on a game of chance.
And, to cater for this insatiable appetite for taking expensive risks, casinos have become glittering beacons amongst every iconic skyline. When they aren’t providing a sumptuous backdrop for your favourite Bond scenes, these gaming clubs are spinning, clicking and whirring away to determine the fortunes and demise of the players who sit down to play with Lady Luck.
It’s little wonder that so many of Hollywood’s most glamorous sequences have taken place within these extravagant walls. Read on for our list of the most beautiful gaming houses amongst them.
Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco
François Blanc, the founder of Casino de Monte-Carlo said of his project, “we should do nothing here as it is done elsewhere” and it has certainly earned its place amongst the most beautiful gaming destinations in the world.
The image of James Bond has become inseparable from the Casino de Monte-Carlo, which, with its Belle Époque architecture, is perhaps the most quintessentially glamorous spot on the list.
Casino Baden-Baden, Germany
Germany’s oldest casino, once described by Hollywood darling Marlene Dietrich as “the most beautiful casino in the world” Baden-Baden boasts flair, splendour, style and charm.
In the days of the belle époque, the international jet set flocked here — with everyone from English Lords, Javan plantation owners, literary figures from Paris and composers from Moscow flocking to place their bets in these hallowed hallways.
The Ritz Club, London
The Ritz Club is quite literally world famous. It offers some of the most exclusive gambling not only in London but on the planet.
The main salon is situated in the former ballroom, which is embellished with a domed ceiling and trompe l’oeil–painted walls. This casino is at once classic and contemporary, much like the iconic building which houses it.
Les Ambassadeurs Casino, London
Les Ambassadeurs Club gaming floor is one of the most modern and elegant in London’s casino world, having played host to royals and glitterati for over 100 years.
Traditional table games such as American Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack and Three Card Poker are operated by some of the country’s most experienced and efficient croupiers.
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