Does This Set Location Prove That Sean Bean Is Returning To Game of Thrones?

The fairy tale vision pictured above goes by the name of Castillo de Zafra. Teetering over a rocky outcrop in Spain's Guadalajara region, it's not seen much action since the 12th century, standing a lonely vigil in the Campillo de Dueñas, filled with memories of protecting rebellious rulers from Spanish kings. And now it could be about to oversee one of GOT most exciting storylines and answer the question of all questions: Who the hell is Jon Snow's Dad?

Here's the skinny:

HBO has confirmed that the striking tower will feature as a location in series six of Game of Thrones. Which may seem fairly innocent but the reveal renews fan speculation over a crucial storyline that could emerge in the next season. Namely, who the mysterious father of Jon Snow is.

To bring you up to speed in the wild world of GOT fan theories, an HBO casting call for a 'Legendary Fighter', described as "a great swordsman... the best in Europe", led many (us included) to speculate that the show was looking to introduce Arthur Dayne.

This Dayne chap plays a crucial role in events leading up to the main war for the throne featured in Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire/HBO's Game of Thrones - and is hinted to be heavily involved in the story of Jon Snow's true parentage.

Through various references littered throughout Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire which haven't appeared in the TV show, we know that Dayne was firm friends with Rhaegar Targaryen - and was apparent when Rhaegar kidnapped Lyanna Stark, sister of Ned (remember Sean Bean? We miss Sean Bean, but don't worry...).  

The theory goes that Jon Snow isn't the son of Ned Stark. One of the most popular theories as to who his dad is involves what happens after Rhaegar ran off with Lyanna. During the rebellion of Robert Baratheon against the mad king Aerys, Dayne is killed by Ned Stark and his troops defending the Tower of Joy in which Lyanna Stark is being kept. 

The Tower of Joy obviously being incredibly similar to the above Spanish structure. See where we're going with this?

Ned (Bean) then went on to find his sister dying, and promises to keep her final wish - to protect her and Rhaegar's son, who will grow up to be Jon Snow.

It's thought that this Castillo de Zafra could make an ideal Tower of Joy, which could feature in a flashback sequence in season six that more firmly introduces the question of Jon Snow's origins for the television audience. And perhaps more excitingly for Yorkshire lovin' GOT fans, this requires the show to call upon resident King's Hand of awesome Sean Bean to film the required scenes.