History | New Zealand Desk
Venetian Ridotto: The Cradle of Organized Gaming
The history of the world's first government-sanctioned casino, opened in Venice in 1638 to control illegal gambling during the carnival season.
Government Control
The Ridotto was established by the Great Council of Venice to provide a regulated, taxable environment for the rampant gambling that occurred during the carnival.
Dress Code & Secrecy
Players were required to wear masks and three-cornered hats, ensuring anonymity and breaking down class barriers at the gaming tables.