Archaeologists have discovered what they believe is an underground casino in Russia.

Gambling was outlawed in Russia in the 17th century, so people are thought to have come up with a way of taking part in the pastime underground. Those caught gambling were either flogged or had their ears cut off, so they came up with elaborate tricks. According to the Archaeological Centre of  Pskov region , scientists unearthed a wooden bench about 385 miles west of Moscow.
The bench had a game called alquerque carved into it, the archaeologists believe.
The game, which was like an early version of draughts, was popular in Russia during that period. If a raid took place, people would simply sit down on the bench, ruining the game but saving them from prosecution.
Excavators have also found pieces of the game in recent years.