Founded in 1854 by Prince Florestan the First, this is also the year gambling was made legal by him. The first casino was located in a villa, near by the harbour. The officially opening was on 14 december 1856. The casino would be one of the most important sources of income for Monaco because roulette was forbidden in France.
When Prince Karel the Thirth gave the order to build the new area of Monte Carlo he also decided that there would come a new casino. The first brick was layed on the 13th of may in 1858 by crown prince Albert I. The new building was opened on the 18th of februari 1863. In 1910, the casino once again extended, including a theater. The building is surrounded by gardens and a terrace from which one can look to Italy. The casino also appeared in a few famous James Bond movies.
The casino is also a part of the SBM Group, they own five casinos, four hotels, 32 distinguished restaurants, Les Thermes Marins de Monte-Carlo and Jimmy’z. the Société des Bains de Mer offers its guests luxury, privilege, emotion, a legend, a wide palette of pleasures, fitness and well-being, and real innovation in conditions one normally only dreams about. The “Monte-Carlo” signature, for a new art of living, unique throughout the world.
Its activities extend to various areas relating to tourism, leisure and business, casino games, gastronomy, well-being, culture and sports. A real exception in the business world, with a range of skills which are cause for admiration. A style as well, subtly glamorous, an approach born of high tradition and legendary courtesy, giving a wonderful impression of being at the heart of a legend and becoming part of it.
The casino is one of the most notable buildings in Monaco. The complex also includes the Grand Théâtre de Monte Carlo an a opera and ballet house. It also includes the office of the ballets de Monte Carlo. For citizens of Monaco is it forbidden to enter the gaming rooms of the casino. The Monte Carlo Casino also hosts the annual European Poker Tour Grand Final.