Hexagonally ordered mesoporous silicas of MCM-41 type, SBA-3 and SBA-15 were applied as supports for chromium species introduced via incipient wetness impregnation. The samples were characterised by XRD, N-2 adsorption, UV-vis spectroscopy, H-2-TPR, and a test reaction (acetonylacetone cyclisation). Their catalytic performance in sulphurisation of methanol was studied. Formation of active centres on mesoporous silica supports as a result of the post-synthesis modification with CrO3 was found to depend strongly on the preparation conditions used in the synthesis of the support. These conditions determined not only the textural/structural parameters but also surface properties of the support, important for the anchoring of metal species which is crucial for catalytic activity. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.