The Casino de Monte-Carlo (often called Casino Monte-Carlo) has been one of Monaco’s historical fixtures for centuries. It features an exclusive atmosphere and is glamorous beyond belief, drawing worldwide visitors each year.
Ultimately, this iconic landmark was designed and built by Gobineau de la Bretonnerie, a Parisian architect. After opening in 1865, it became the heart of Monaco, capturing the mystery and majesty of the land.
In 1875, Charles Garnier designed and built the Opera de Monte-Carlo, expanding the original building. There’s also Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo, which is a classical ballet company that was established in 1985. Let’s learn more about this luxurious casino and its history.
The Glamorous Age
If you visit the Casino Monte-Carlo, you’ll see hints of the Belle Epoque architectural style. This building is a true work of art and represents the grandeur of a time period focused on artistic and cultural prosperity.
Its distinctive style combines sophistication and elegance. A quick glance at the exterior tells you of the promises of opulence waiting inside.
Once you step into the building, you’ll notice dramatic chandeliers, ornate sculptures, and intricate stained-glass windows. These things add to the impressive atmosphere.
Casino de Monte-Carlo – Why It Came to Be
Princess Caroline came up with the idea to open a gambling casino. She was a shrewd and business-minded woman, believing that the revenue created would save her family from bankruptcy.
Charles, Princess Caroline’s son, recruited Frenchmen to create a development plan and gather funding to build a spa to treat different diseases. It included a casino and villas. Though he started the project in 1854, it took two years to complete. Originally, the Casino de Monte-Carlo was located in Villa Bellevue, though this was only temporary.
Most people didn’t think a gambling resort in Monaco would succeed because there were few roads connecting it to other parts of Europe. Likewise, visitors had to deal with less-than-comfortable accommodations.
Once built, no one knew how to publicize the new casino, so there were fewer customers than anticipated. Ultimately, the original creators gave up their rights.
Likewise, the casino was moved many times, finally ending up in Les Spelugues (The Caves). Construction started in 1858 and was finished in 1863. Gobineau de la Bretonnerie also designed the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, which is nearby.
Luckily, the Casino de Monte-Carlo turned a profit in 1859, but the owners at the time couldn’t handle it. They weren’t competent enough to create an entire gambling enterprise. Princess Caroline was now very frustrated, so she sought out Francois Blanc, who operated a betting house in another area. Initially, he declined, but she convinced him to come to Monaco.
In 1863, Francois Blanc agreed to take over the casino business in Monaco. He formed a new company to manage everything, which included prominent investors like Pope Leo XIII, the Cardinal Pecci, and more.
Blanc was now the major stockholder of the casino and the company. Luckily, he had many connections and raised the capital needed for a large construction project. He then changed the city name of Les Spelugues to Monte Carlo, making it sound better to the visitors.
Between 1878 and 1879, Charles Garnier worked to expand the building, adding an opera house. A concert hall was also created during this time.
Then, in 1880 and 1881, the Casino Monte-Carlo was expanded once more. They added a gaming room, which Garnier designed. More additions followed, as well as a remodeling of certain parts.
A Look at the Casino Monte-Carlo Now
It’s quite easy to be transported back in time when you visit the Casino de Monte-Carlo today. Most of the original architecture is still there, though the current owners have remodeled it for convenience and comfort. Here are a few things to note if you gamble here now:
The Casino Entrance
Those who visit the Casino de Monte-Carlo will start at the Place du Casino (Casino Square). This expansive plaza sits at the front entrance and is often full of tourists snapping photos. There are often expensive vehicles (think Rolls Royce, Bentley, and Ferrari) zipping up and down the street.
Now, there are blockade barriers that encircle the casino. However, they are lowered periodically when a high roller is entering and has permission to park inside the plaza.
Anyone can go into the Atrium for free. This is a great area because you can wander around and marvel at the abundant opulence surrounding you. There’s also a gift shop.
Gaming Rooms IN Casino de Monte-Carlo
The gaming rooms are just as luxurious as the rest of the casino. Strangely, local Monaco citizens cannot enter them or play the games. This law was created in 1987 so that dealers wouldn’t see family members and risk a suspicious situation.
Therefore, when you enter the casino gaming area, you’ll have to show your passport or a national identity card to prove you’re not a Monaco citizen.
Shockingly, there’s an entrance fee to get into the Casino Monte-Carlo, and you cannot gamble before 1 p.m. However, you can view the rooms and enjoy an audio-guided tour.
Guests will find most of the traditional games, such as blackjack, Texas Hold’em, craps, and slots. These are often what people turn to because they’re more familiar. Still, it’s wise to branch out and try something new, such as the Punto Banco table and French roulette.
Amazing Opulence
Some people feel out of place in the Casino de Monte-Carlo because it’s so opulently decorated. They almost believe they should wear ball gowns and three-piece suits to gamble. However, there are no dress codes. As long as the important parts of the body are covered, adults 18+ are allowed in.
Famous People, Books, and Films
Though you’ll marvel at its architecture, the Casino de Monte-Carlo also has a rich cultural heritage. Since its opening, it has hosted global dignitaries, royalty, and celebrities.
Many businesses have used the breathtaking design of the Casino Monte-Carlo to inspire their décor. Likewise, this building has been the backdrop for many popular music videos and films.
Did you know that the James Bond character is often associated with the Casino de Monte-Carlo? Many of the 007 movies were filmed here or in Monaco.
In 2021, the Princess Grace Foundation and H.S.H. Prince Albert II hosted the No Time to Die premiere at the casino. The movie was the 25th in the franchise, and it was a red-carpet event, to say the least.
Other notable movies that were inspired by the Casino de Monte-Carlo include GoldenEye, Casino Royale, and Never Say Never Again (another James Bond film).
Most people do not doubt that the Monte-Carlo Casino is the perfect backdrop for James Bond’s exploits. It is truly a show-stopping and glittery work of art. Whether it was Sean Connery, Roger Moore, or Pierce Brosnan, any actor playing this character would look perfect at the gambling tables asking for a martini that was “shaken, not stirred.”
Can’t Visit the Casino Monte-Carlo? No Problem!
The Casino de Monte-Carlo sees many visitors. However, you don’t have to travel to try your hand at poker, blackjack, and other gambling games. In fact, you can enjoy the convenience of staying at home and wearing pajamas.
7XL is an online casino that has tons of fun betting games. You’ll still get the excitement you crave without leaving your house. Register for an account today to experience all it has to offer.
