Novel metal-organic frameworks [Eu2L3(DMSO)(2)(MeOH)(2)]center dot 2DMSO center dot 3H(2)O and [Zn2L2(DMSO)(2)]center dot 1.6H(2)O, 2, (L = 4,4'-ethyne-1,2-diyldibenzoate) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Compound 1 is a 3D open framework while 2 features interpenetrating 2D sheets in the crystal lattice. Both compounds have been characterized with X-ray crystallography, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. Compounds 1 and 2 are red and blue-green luminescent, respectively, in the solid state at ambient temperature. Thermogravimetric analysis implies that the extensive interpenetration stabilizes the lattice of 2, although it diminishes the porosity at the same time. The luminescence of 1 can be reversibly quenched and restored by the addition and removal of iodine.