Samedan was mentioned for the first time in the Gamertingen Agreement of 1139 and became an autonomous municipality in 1538. It gained political importance in the 15th and 16th century, rivalling with Zuoz. This conflict between the two municipalities went so far that on one occasion an arbitration court made up of representatives of the Three Leagues had to be appointed to settle the dispute.It was only in the 19th century, after frictions had been eased, that Samedan became the capital of the Upper Engadin. Several of the village's inhabitants played a significant role in Swiss and Graubünden history, including the Samedan branches of the von Salis and Planta families. In around 1700, the two families between them accounted for half of the tax revenue, and their wealth and power are still reflected in their magnificent patrician houses in the historic village centre.