A new class of sterically hindered phthalocyanine has been synthesized and characterized. Pentaphenylbenzene units were introduced at the periphery of each phthalocyanine to yield a sterically protected metal center. The attachment of the bulky oligophenylbenzene units resulted in the complete isolation of individual MPc molecules. The pockets around a cobalt center affect selectivity in the ligation of pyridines that have different sizes and shapes.