What is the oldest casino in the world?
•
19 May 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Spa is not only known for its race circuit, but also houses the oldest existing casino in Belgium (and even worldwide). For those who want to plan a fun day out, you can discover timeless charm here. The fascinating history of this casino goes all the way back to 1763.
Cultural heritage in the Ardennes
In 1763, this legendary casino opened its doors under the name “La Redoute” in the middle of the vast forests of Spa, which has also become famous for its drinking water sources and as a spa. The city of Spa represents an oasis of peace and greenery where in the past even princes and kings came for a relaxing evening out.
It was partly due to the popularity of spas that this casino saw the light of day. The classic imposing monument with large windows is still a major attraction to this day, where history and games go hand in hand.
Despite its rich history, the casino also had to deal with setbacks. The building was hit by fires several times, which made reconstruction and renovation necessary. The biggest fires occurred in 1909 and 1917, which largely destroyed the original building. The last renovation took place in 1980.
The building was rebuilt in a luxurious neoclassical style that reflects a place for entertainment, but also symbolizes resilience and a forward-looking vision.
An environment for both classic charm and innovation
You can discover different gaming rooms. They keep the authenticity to keep their classic charm, but also renew the gaming facilities.
In 2010, a completely renovated hall opened with slot machines that symbolize the allure of Las Vegas. Electronic poker tables and electronic roulette were also introduced. As a player, you can expect a wide range of games including an extensive range of poker, roulette, blackjack, bingo and more than 150 slot machines. In addition, the casino has a brasserie and a separate smoking area.
The Spa casino is also known as the organizer of famous poker tournaments such as MEC Poker Open, BAPT (Belgian Amateur Poker Tour), BPC (Belgian Poker Championship) and even the European Poker Series. The imposing building is 30 kilometres away from the famous car circuit. For those planning a trip to Spa: You can discover a historic casino, relax in a spa and experience an exciting car race. In the picturesque city of Spa, different experiences and interests come together.