A new pyrene-based calix[4]arene was synthesized. This compound (4) was examined for its fluorescent properties towards different metal ions (Mg 2+, Ni2+, Ba2+, Ca2+, Cu 2+, Pb2+, Zn2+) and anions (F-, Cl-, Br-, H2PO4-, NO3-, HSO4-, CH 3COO-) by UV, NMR and fluorescence spectroscopy. Fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that 4 exhibited high affinity for Cu2+ and low affinity for Pb2+, Mg2+, F -. Quenching constant and stability constants for complexation of 4 with Cu2+ and F- have been determined according to literature. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.