How tall are Samson and Goliath?

Samson and Goliath: Belfast’s Giant Cranes

Standing as iconic symbols of Belfast’s industrial heritage, the twin cranes Samson and Goliath loom over the Harland and Wolff shipyard on the eastern shores of Belfast Lough. These colossal structures are more than just functional machinery—they’re landmarks, etched into the city’s skyline and collective memory.

Goliath, the elder of the two, was erected in 1969 by the renowned German engineering firm Krupp. Towering at 96 metres (315 feet), it quickly became a symbol of Northern Ireland’s engineering prowess. Five years later, Krupp returned to install Samson, a slightly more imposing figure at 106 metres (348 feet). Though similar in design, Samson’s extra height gives it a subtle edge, both literally and figuratively.

Originally built to support the shipbuilding process—particularly the construction of massive ocean liners like the *Titanic*, though they came decades later—the cranes have witnessed the evolution of the shipyard through boom and decline. Today, while shipbuilding has diminished, Samson and Goliath remain active, supporting various maritime and industrial projects, as well as serving as powerful reminders of Belfast’s industrial golden age.

More than just steel and rivets, these giants have become part of Belfast’s identity. Their silhouettes are featured in local art, souvenirs, and even a beloved children’s TV show from the 1980s. They stand not only as engineering feats but as enduring symbols of resilience, innovation, and the city’s enduring spirit.