A visit to the town of Spa in Belgium feels like part of a global story. The town’s name, which became a generic term worldwide thanks to its renowned thermomineral baths, is widely known across the globe, and not without reason. It was the baths of Spa that initially attracted visitors, but as a resort town for the European elite of the time, it was clear that to renew and excite, a casino was also needed. Thus, the town became a global icon, also known for the casino that was built there in 1763, which is considered the oldest in the world.
The original building endured quite a few traumas, and therefore was renovated multiple times. There were periods when gambling was banned, and the area also suffered during World War II. The casino we see today took its current form after the last renovation in 1918. The building is part of a classic complex, resembling a large palace, with elegant ballrooms and a beautiful theater on one side, and charmingly well-maintained gardens at its front.
The casino is not particularly large and lacks any bombastic symbols. On the contrary, it has a refined, classic atmosphere, with heavy crimson curtains and subdued ambient lighting. In the central space, there is a high ceiling, and traditional games, including roulette, blackjack, and slot machines, are scattered throughout. On the second floor, there are poker rooms as well as several spaces for private events, a bar, and two restaurants, one of which has a terrace overlooking the front of the building facing the main street.
Bottom line: For the body, mind, and wallet.
