Possibly the largest university in Poland, Warsaw University was established as a Royal University in 1816. Owing to its original status, it is located on the Royal Route leading to other royal buildings. Though it started with just five departments it rapidly expanded over the years and is currently spread over 126 buildings. However, the main campus on the Royal Route is the highlight. It has a beautiful gate and facade and comprises many historic palaces and buildings. Chief among them are the Kazimierzowski Palace which is the office of the rector and the senate, the Uruski Palace which contains the geography department, the Old Library and the Main School. Prominent people associated with the university include the famous music composer and pianist Frederic Chopin and former prime ministers of Israel David Ben-Gurion and Yitzhak Shamir.