A novel amide-based open-chain crown ether, N,N'-1,3-propanediyl-bis[2-(benzyl -carbamoyl-methoxy)-benzamide] (L) and its solid complexes with rare earth nitrates and picrates have been prepared. The complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, molar conductivity and IR spectra. The fluorescence properties of the Eu(III) and Tb(III) complexes in solid and in organic solvents were studied. Under the excitation of ultraviolet light, these complexes exhibit characteristic emission of europium and terbium ions. The results show that the ligand favor energy transfers to the emitting energy level of Tb(III). Some factors that influence the fluorescent intensity were also discussed.