The invention provides a monolithic catalyst support for hydrogenation and hydrotreating and in particular for selective hydrogenation of pyrolysis gasoline. The monolithic catalyst includes (i) a multicellular monolith body, preferably having a honeycomb structure, most preferably a honeycomb structure made of cordierite, the honeycomb structure having an inlet end, an outlet end, and a multiplicity of mutually adjoining cells extending along the length of the body from the inlet end to the outlet end, the cells being separated from one another by porous walls, and, (ii) a coating consisting of theta alumina synthesized in situ on the multicellular monolith body. The in situ theta alumina is strongly bonded with the multicellular monolith body and comprises at least 50% by weight of the washcoat layer, and preferably greater than 90% by weight.