anne frank stairs

Anne Frank's Hidden Stairs: A Historic Journey

By Anthony WilliamsMarch 19, 2026

The Anne Frank Stairs, a poignant symbol of resilience and hope, are a must-visit attraction in Amsterdam. This iconic staircase, located at the Secret Annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Nazi occupation, offers a tangible connection to the young diarist's courageous story.

Today, the Anne Frank House is one of the most visited museums in the Netherlands, with the Anne Frank Stairs serving as a crucial part of the immersive experience. Let's delve into the history, significance, and visitor experience of these remarkable stairs.

The History of the Anne Frank Stairs

The Anne Frank Stairs, also known as the Secret Annex Stairs, played a pivotal role in the Frank family's two-year hiding period. The Secret Annex, where they concealed themselves, was a secret space behind a bookcase in the building at Prinsengracht 263 in Amsterdam.

an old staircase with bars going up and down

an empty staircase leading up to the top floor in a room with white walls and blue trim

The stairs, leading up to the annex, were the only way in and out of their hiding place. The family and the four others who joined them had to navigate these stairs silently and carefully, as the slightest noise could have jeopardized their safety.

The Design and Layout

The Anne Frank Stairs are narrow and steep, typical of many Amsterdam canal houses. They are made of wood and creak underfoot, a feature that adds to the authenticity of the experience. The stairs lead up to the Secret Annex on the third floor, with a small landing on the second floor.

a woman standing in front of an open door with her hand up to the oven

there is a stairway going up and down the stairs

The stairs are dimly lit, replicating the conditions during the war. This design choice helps visitors understand the challenges the inhabitants faced, both physically and emotionally, during their time in hiding.

The Stairs Today

Today, the Anne Frank Stairs are a key part of the museum's exhibition. Visitors can walk up the stairs, following in the footsteps of Anne Frank and her family. The experience is made all the more powerful by the fact that the stairs are original and have been preserved in their wartime condition.

The stairs are often the most emotional part of the visit for many. They serve as a stark reminder of the courage and resilience of the eight people who hid here, and the millions of others who suffered during the Holocaust.

Mars architectes, Charly Broyez, Nicolas Grosmond · Renovation of Anne Frank Middle School

two pictures of an empty room with some stairs in the corner and one has a door open

an old wooden staircase leading up to a door

The Anne Frank Stairs in Popular Culture

The Anne Frank Stairs have been immortalized in various forms of media, helping to keep Anne Frank's story alive. They feature prominently in the 1959 film "The Diary of Anne Frank" and the 2001 television movie "Anne Frank: The Whole Story".

In literature, the stairs are a central element in many works inspired by Anne Frank's diary. They serve as a physical representation of the family's journey, both literally and metaphorically, and their struggle to maintain hope in the face of adversity.

Visiting the Anne Frank Stairs is more than just a historical experience; it's a profound and moving journey into the past. It's a reminder of the power of resilience, hope, and the written word. As you ascend the stairs, you're not just walking through history, you're walking in the footsteps of courage.