This essential text provides for the first time a practical introduction to synthetic macrocyclic chemistry. It contains a wealth of detailed information that is targeted not only to those engaged in synthesis in universities and industry, but also nonspecialists and newcomers interested in the field. Many of the protocols are also suitable for inclusion in undergraduate laboratory classes. Some chapters give full details of the synthesis of nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur containing macrocycles (e.g. benzo- and chiral crown ethers, cryptands and torands), while others give excellent coverage of the synthesis and elaboration of calixarenes, spherands, hemi-spherands and calix-spherands, and the final chapter lucidly explains the metal templated synthesis of catenanes.