Created in partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), a new book by luxury publisher Assouline, ‘Casino de Monte-Carlo: The Grand Art of Gaming’, reveals how the historic gaming hall evolved into a global symbol of elegance, detailing the vision, architecture, and cultural legacy that shaped modern Monaco.
Long before it became a famous backdrop for films or a gathering place for high society, the Casino de Monte-Carlo was simply a bold bet on a rocky coastline. Built in the 19th century, it became the birthplace of modern Monaco, helping to turn a quiet seaside town into a world-famous symbol of luxury.
Beyond the roulette wheel
The success of the Casino was never just about gambling. In the 19th century, businessman François Blanc understood that the establishment needed to offer a complete lifestyle.
He placed the grand gaming halls at the centre of a resort surrounded by luxury hotels, beautiful gardens, and lively social events. Over the decades, master architects, artists, and decorators shaped its interior spaces.
From the grand Atrium and the historic Salle Europe to the cosy Salon Rose, the Salle des Amériques, and the Salle Blanche, every room tells a unique story. These halls have changed with the times and even appeared in famous films, including the James Bond movies Never Say Never Again and GoldenEye, as well as Ocean’s Twelve.
A new book captures the legacy
Charlotte Lubert-Notari brings an insider’s perspective to The Grand Art of Gaming. Long before becoming head of SBM’s Heritage Department, she spent thirteen years investigating the Casino from an office tucked beneath its roof, tracing its history through archival records and the building itself.
Published by Assouline for Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, the book pairs previously unpublished material with historical and contemporary photography. Her training in bookbinding and visual arts at Pavillon Bosio informs an account that looks beyond the gaming rooms to the craftsmanship, architecture and people that shaped the Casino.
Priced at €120, the book is available on the Assouline website and in its retail boutiques, as well as locally at the Casino de Monte-Carlo and Drugstore Monte-Carlo boutiques.
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Phot credit: Assouline x Monte-Carlo SBM