A simple synthesis of novel and known calix[4]resorcinarenes derivatives has been achieved by the condensation of resorcinol and different aromatic aldehydes in the presence of catalytic amounts of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles under solvent-free conditions. The experimental conditions have been thoroughly optimized and established, allowing significant rate enhancements and good to excellent yields. The reactions can be run safely without using any toxic organic solvents under mild reaction conditions. The Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles were characterized by powdered X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FT-IR spectroscopy. # 2011 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society.