Symbolically, a staircase often holds significant meaning. In dream analysis, staircases often suggest a journey. Symbolically, a spiral, twisted staircase may suggest mystery and disorientation. Staircases can also be looked at as a link. Literally, a staircase connects two floors. Figuratively, and more vaguely, a staircase is simply a passageway which can unite any two things, places, ideas, or states of being.
Photo taken in Hamburg, Germany