Gambling has been part of Spain’s history for centuries.
This timeline highlights the key moments that have shaped the development of gambling in Spain up to the present day.
Antiquity and the middle ages: the first games of chance
Dice were already used in Roman Hispania, where soldiers and citizens played various games based on chance. During the Middle Ages, card games became increasingly popular, although they were periodically banned by authorities.
Gambling was part of social life, even if it was not always well regarded.
16th–18th centuries: regulation and control
Over time, the Crown began regulating certain activities linked to games of chance. In 1763, the Spanish National Lottery was established — one of the most important milestones in the country’s gambling history.
The lottery was not only a form of entertainment but also a source of state funding.
19th century: the birth of casinos
During the 19th century, the first casinos emerged as social spaces connected to cultural and recreational circles. They were not exactly like modern casinos, but rather social clubs combining gatherings, events, and gaming activities.
Gambling was becoming institutionalized in certain environments.
1922–1977: prohibition
In 1922, many forms of gambling were officially banned in Spain. For decades, gambling remained restricted or illegal, except for certain activities such as the National Lottery and football pools.
This period marked a significant turning point.
1977: legalization of modern gambling
A key milestone came in 1977, when gambling was officially legalized in Spain.
From that moment:
- Modern casinos were regulated
- Bingo halls were introduced
- Gaming machines were developed
This marked the beginning of the regulated land-based gambling sector as we know it today.
1980s–1990s: expansion of gaming machines
Type B gaming machines (slot machines) became popular in hospitality venues and casinos. The sector experienced significant growth and consolidated its role as a regulated economic activity.
Spain’s Autonomous Communities assumed regulatory powers in gambling matters, establishing their own specific rules.
2011: regulation of online gambling
With the approval of Law 13/2011 on Gambling Regulation, Spain established a legal framework for online gambling at the national level.
This law formalized the coexistence of land-based and online gambling under regulatory oversight.
2010s–present: focus on responsible gambling and control
In the last decade, the sector has strengthened its commitment to:
- Mandatory access controls
- Self-exclusion registers
- Technological verification systems
- Responsible gambling initiatives
The goal is to provide a safe, transparent, and supervised adult leisure environment.
The present: regulated entertainment and technology
Today, casinos in Spain operate under strict regional regulations, with approved systems, periodic inspections, and digital control measures.
The evolution is clear: from informal gambling practices to a regulated, technological, and supervised model.
A history that mirrors society
The evolution of gambling in Spain reflects broader social, economic, and legislative changes. Each stage represents a different perspective on leisure, regulation, and responsibility.
Gambling has moved from a popular pastime to a regulated activity within a solid legal framework.
And its history continues to unfold.