The tower was built around 1200 for the local noble Pontresina family and originally was known by that name.

[1] The Pontresina family was probably fairly wealthy and powerful in the early 13th century, but often quarreled with the Bishop of Chur.

They are first mentioned in 1244 when they were stripped the office of chancery over the Upper Engadine by the bishop.

It is a five sided bergfried (a tower not designed for permanent habitation) that is still four stories tall.

The original high entrance was located on the second story of the south-west wall.