The quieter, contemplative part of Larnaca's seafront promenade, named after the Ottoman admiral Piyale Pasha, contrasts sharply with the bustling atmosphere along Athens Avenue, also known as the promenade of small palm trees. This area, rich with elements of recent history, honours Piyale Pasha, whose naval conquests in the Mediterranean left a lasting legacy. The Piale Pasha Promenade offers a serene walk along the coast, reflecting the historical and cultural influences that have shaped the region.

Piyale Pasha was an influential Ottoman admiral whose strategic brilliance significantly expanded the Ottoman Empire's reach in the Mediterranean. Born around 1515, likely of Croatian origin, he quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional skills. His successful campaigns, including capturing Cyprus in 1570, showcased Ottoman naval strength and secured essential territories.

The significance of Cyprus in Ottoman history is profound. The island's capture from the Venetians marked a crucial expansion of Ottoman influence. However, in 1878, the Ottomans handed Cyprus over to the British for a mere 100,000 dinars, a transaction that many saw as a humiliating loss. This set the stage for future conflicts and symbolic acts of revenge.

During World War I, Larnaca Castle became a focal point again. German forces occupied the castle, aiming to disrupt British operations in the Eastern Mediterranean. This brief occupation was part of Germany's broader strategy to control critical regions. However, it also symbolized a form of Turkish revenge, facilitated by their German allies, for the earlier loss of Cyprus to the British.

The German occupation of Larnaca Castle was short-lived. British forces, determined to reclaim their strategic positions, successfully retook the castle, reinforcing their regional presence. This restoration of British control was crucial for maintaining dominance over maritime routes and military operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.