Steeped in history, soaked in Amsterdam's rich counterculture, Paradiso has been a vital hub in one of Europe's most musical cities since it opened in 1968 as the Cosmic Relaxation Center Paradiso.

Today, it's one of the most important venues in the city, hosting gigs as well as club nights that attract the cream of the DJ crop, from the most commercial to the most underground; everyone from Skrillex to Kerri Chandler, Modeselektor and Laurent Garnier played last year.

Hosting five club nights a week in its main hall, Paradiso also has a smaller sister venue, the small hall, which hosts events from upcoming talent. Sticking to its countercultural principles in 2012, it remains an important cultural centre, with lectures, fashion shows and even classical performances taking place periodically.

"Paradiso is and has been the No.1 music temple in Amsterdam, supporting quality (underground) music since day one," opines Amsterdam DJ/producer Tom Trago. "Numerous DJs and dance acts in all genres have played sets here. They promote all kinds of music as long as it is good."