Casino de Monte-Carlo — casino in Monte Carlo

A symbol of luxury and gambling, the Casino de Monte-Carlo opened in 1863 and saved Monaco from bankruptcy, turning the tiny principality into the gaming capital of Europe. The Belle Époque building was designed by Charles Garnier, the author of the Paris Opera: marble columns, stained glass, gilding and frescoes create the atmosphere of a palace. It was here that the legend of Charles Wells, "the man who broke the bank at Monte Carlo", was born, and here that Ian Fleming brought James Bond. The casino has repeatedly served as a set for 007 films and "Ocean's Eleven". The private Salons Privés and Salle Blanche rooms preserve the spirit of the old aristocracy, while in front of the entrance stretches Casino Square with its fountain, the Hôtel de Paris and a legendary café. Citizens of Monaco are still forbidden to enter the gaming rooms to this day — only guests of the principality may play here.