Looming above the Vltava river, the castle's spires, towers and palaces dominate the city centre skyline. Within its walls lies many fascinating and historic buildings, museums and galleries, that are home to some of the Czech Republic's greatest artistic and cultural treasures. According to the Guinness World Records, it is the largest ancient castle in the world, approximately covering a total area bigger than seven football fields. The castle has always been the seat of Czech monarchs as well as the official residence of the head of state. Its history began in the 9th century, when Prince Bořivoj founded a fortified settlement here.