Abstract Monoacetals of ω, ω′-dialdehydes 3 are converted (Z)-stereospecifically into (Z)- unsaturated ω-acetal-carboxylic-acids 5 and 12, respectively. Replacement of the hydroxylic group by the ylid function, followed by acetal cleavage and an intramolecular (E)- stereospecific Wittig reaction yields (E, Z)-cyclodienones 10 and 14, respectively. Subsequent reduction of 14 affords civetone 15.