The Caesar brand has been synonymous with luxury and gaming for decades, with its iconic hotels and casinos offering an unparalleled experience to visitors from around the world. From its humble beginnings in the 1950s to its current status as a global gaming giant, the Caesar name has come a long way. In this article, we’ll delve into some fascinating facts about Caesar that caesarsite.com will surprise you.
Fact #1: The First Caesar Casino Was Actually a Motel
When it first opened in 1958, the El Cortez Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas was rebranded as the "Caesar’s Palace" by its new owner, Bill Harrah. However, what many people don’t know is that the original Caesar’s was not a luxurious casino like we see today. Instead, it was a humble motel with just 30 rooms. The property didn’t even have air conditioning until several years later.
The El Cortez had been built in the late 1940s as a small motel and casino, but by the mid-1950s, it was struggling to compete with other casinos on the strip. Harrah’s purchase of the property marked a turning point for the business, which he would eventually transform into one of the most iconic casinos in Las Vegas.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Gaming Giant
Today, Caesar’s is part of Caesars Entertainment, Inc., one of the largest gaming companies in the world. The company operates over 50 properties across the globe, including resorts and hotels in destinations such as Macau, Singapore, and London. With a diverse portfolio of brands, including Harrah’s, Flamingo, and Rio, Caesar’s has evolved into a global gaming powerhouse.
Fact #2: The Iconic Colosseum Wasn’t Always Part of the Design
One of the most recognizable landmarks on the Las Vegas strip is the iconic colosseum at Caesar’s Palace. Designed by renowned architect Martin Stern Jr., this imposing structure was not always part of the original design. In fact, it wasn’t until several years after the casino opened that the Colosseum was added as a separate venue for live entertainment and events.
The original concept for Caesar’s Palace featured a more subdued design, with the iconic statue of Julius Caesar at its entrance being the main focal point. However, as the property grew in popularity, it became clear that something more dramatic was needed to draw visitors’ attention.
The Colosseum: A Symbol of Luxury and Entertainment
Today, the Colosseum is a testament to Caesar’s commitment to excellence and entertainment. With its state-of-the-art sound system and seating for up to 4,300 guests, this venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music and comedy. From Celine Dion to Elton John, many world-renowned performers have taken to the stage at the Colosseum, cementing its reputation as one of the premier entertainment venues in Las Vegas.
Fact #3: Caesar’s Palace Was a Hub for Hollywood Stars
In the 1960s and 1970s, Caesar’s Palace was a favorite haunt of Hollywood stars. The likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. could often be spotted sipping cocktails at the property’s famous lounge bar or dining at one of its high-end restaurants.
One notable incident that highlights the close relationship between Caesar’s Palace and Hollywood occurred in 1961, when a massive fire broke out on the top floor of the hotel. The blaze was eventually brought under control, but not before it had destroyed several rooms and forced hundreds of guests to evacuate.
The Stars Came Out for Caesar’s
Despite the chaos caused by the fire, Caesar’s Palace continued to attract Hollywood’s elite. In fact, the property became so popular that it even inspired a novel – "The Rat Pack" (1977) by Michael Munn, which chronicles the lives of Sinatra and his friends during their heyday at Caesar’s.