Casinos in Monte Carlo

In central Monaco, there is an area called 'Monte Carlo'. Just as Las Vegas is known as the gambling capital of the US, Monte Carlo is considered the most important part of Europe for those who love to play at casinos.

History of Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo was founded in 1866. The name 'Monte Carlo' has Italian origin and refers to Monaco's Prince Charles III whom governed the area at the time. However, the area is referred to in writings which go back as far as 43 BC, at which point Julius Caesar waited for Pompey with his fleet. During the 12th century, Genoa took over the area. The Grimaldi family regained control over the area in 1295 despite considerable opposition. In 1524, Monte Carlo gained independence, even though the following centuries saw Monte Carlo being ruled by France, Spain and Sardian for short periods of time.

By the 1850s, the royal family had nearly gone completely bankrupt. This was due to the fact that Monte Carlo had lost the cities Menton and Roquebrune. During this period several smaller cities in Europe had become richer due to the emergence of casinos. Because of this, Charles III decided to allow a casino to be built in Monte Carlo in 1862. Initially, the casino's prospects seemed bleak, but eventually it turned into a huge success.

Until 1954, Monte Carlo was its own municipality, but today Monte Carlo is divided into four districts - Saint Michel, Monte Carlo/Spélugues, Larvotto/Bas Moulins and La Rousse/Saint Roman.

Monte Carlo Today

Today Monte Carlo is known as the playground of the rich. It has become one of Europe's most popular tourist resorts. People visit Monte Carlo from all over the world to take part in Circuit de Monaco, European Poker Tour, World Backgammon Championships, fashion shows and other events. Monte Carlo is constantly visited by royalty and A-list celebrities.

Gambling and other Activites

Monte Carlo's casino is called Monte Carlo Casino and is stunning from an aesthetic perspective. It was designed by the architect Charles Garnier. The casino was finished in 1863. Here visitors can play roulette, stud poker, blackjack, trente et quarante, craps, baccarat, video poker and slots.

There is plenty to do in Monte Carlo except for playing at casinos. Salle Garnier (or 'Opéra de Monte-Carlo') was built by the architect Charles Garnier as a copy of Paris Opera House. Hôtel de Paris is truly in a class of its own when compared to other hotels and really suffices on its own as entertainment for visitors looking for an unforgettable experience.

It is also worth noting that the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix takes place in Monaco every year, and this attracts a huge amount of attention. Those who are interested in sports also often travel to Monaco for its boxing events.

The area is famous for its wonderful weather, so obviously visitors travel to Monaco with the purpose of relaxing in the sun and swimming in the sea. Because of this, Monte Carlo has become the setting of many movies, TV-shows and books. James Bond has visited Monte Carlo many times, and this must count for something considering very few manly style icons have reached the same cult status as he has.

Should I Visit Monte Carlo?

If you live in Europe, you have no excuse to miss the experience of visiting Monte Carlo, especially if you love playing at casinos. Over the last decade, a whole range of truly cheap low-fare airlines have popped up, opening up all of the gateways within the boundaries of Europe. Even those on a low income can afford a weekend trip to Monte Carlo for a relaxing drink in the sun, a splash in the sea and a night at the casino in one of the world's most iconic of areas. There are no other casinos in Europe which even come close to the experience of visiting Monte Carlo!