We report the preparation of tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) in acidic ionic liquids. In [HC(4)im][CF3CO2] and [HC(4)im][BF4], TPP could be obtained in 15% and 9% yields, respectively. The yield in [HC(4)im][CF3CO2] was the same as that for the reaction in propionic acid (15%). In addition, [HC(4)im][CF3CO2] could be reused at least 3 times without any loss of its catalytic activity. Use of acidic ionic liquids for porphyrin synthesis can afford the porphyrins. without producing any acid waste.