Spaniola Castle (Ruin) (Pontresina)

The almost pentagonal tower was constructed around the year 1200. Although written construction records are missing, it is believed that the castle served as the residence of the Lords of Pontresina, a family documented between 1244 and 1307. This family of the Upper Engadin became embroiled in a conflict with the Bishop of Chur in 1244, which resulted in them being deprived of the chancellorship. In the same year, the tower suffered damage but was restored by 1261. The family of Pontresina seems to have maintained its position, as in 1294 they pledged the chancellorship, an episcopal fief, to Andreas Planta. The family presumably died out with Symon von Pontresina, and their fiefs passed to the Murell family. During the 15th century, the tower was abandoned and was already described as a ruin by Ulrich Campell around 1550. Preservation work was carried out in 1934 and 1994.