Samson and Goliath, Industrial monuments at Queen's Island, Northern Ireland
Samson and Goliath are two large industrial gantry cranes made of steel that rise above Belfast's harbor at different heights. They were built by German engineering firm Krupp and once served as essential equipment for the shipyard's heavy lifting work.
Goliath was built in 1969, followed by Samson four years later, during the shipyard's peak operational period. They represent the era when Belfast was a major center for maritime construction and engineering.
These cranes have become part of Belfast's local identity since their installation and continue to shape how residents view their waterfront. They serve as visible reminders of the shipyard's role in the city's development and daily life.
These cranes are visible from many places throughout Belfast, especially from the harbor area and surrounding streets where they stand out clearly above the skyline. The best views come from walking along the waterfront or reaching higher viewpoints across the city.
Each crane can independently lift extremely heavy loads, and when working together they can carry even more weight. This immense capacity was necessary for constructing the large ships that were built here.
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