Abstract The isomeric quinhydrones 1 and 2 as well as the bis (quinone) 6 of the [2.2] metaparacyclophane series were synthesized. Precursor of these products was the tetramethoxy [2.2] metaparacyclophane 3 which was prepared via 4 and 5. X-ray structure analyses of 1, 3 and 6 are discussed with regard to the steric strain in these molecules and the donor-acceptor orientation in 1. Charge-transfer absorptions of 1 and 2 are reported ...