A method for the preparation of catalysts, particularly suitable for the hydrogenation of organic compounds, according to which method a catalytic element, preferably selected from the VIII Group elements, is supported on the outer surface of an adsorbent carbon, said method being characterized by the fact that:(a) said carbon containing an amount of ash lower than 1% by weight, is suspended in water;(b) a liquid immiscible with water is added to the suspension obtained according to (a), the volume of said immiscible liquid being substantially equal to or lower than the volume of the carrier's pores;(c) an aqueous solution, containing a compound of the catalytic element, is brought into contact with the suspension obtained according to (b).