A novel water stable Eu-MOF, namely [Eu(H2O)2(CPBDA)]n, was solvothermally synthesized by rigid ligand 3-(6-carboxypyridin-3-yl)benzene-1,4-dioic acid (H3CPBDA) and Eu(III) ion. The resultant sample was studied in detail by single X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis (C, H and N), thermogravimetric analysis and luminescence. Due to its water stability and luminescence properties, the resultant sample can be used as a luminescent sensor for MnO4− in water. Furthermore, it also can be reused at least four times without any change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]