Abstract 1-Benzyl-2-(methylthio)-imidazole-5-ketone is obtained in a few simple steps starting from thiocyanate and glycine amide (glycin). Subsequent treatment with diethyl phosphorocyanidate and functional group manipulations gives 1-benzyl-5-chloromethyl- imidazolium chloride. This compound is converted under mild O'Donnell conditions into the corresponding L-histidine derivative. After deprotection L-histidine is obtained in good ...