Abstract: A novel basic refractory composition is disclosed. This composition has high resistance to calcium silicates such as cement clinkers and slag formed in steelmaking operations. It also has superior resistance to thermal shock and stresses such as load in high temperature. A refractory brick produced from this composition can be used in the firing zone of a rotary kiln and successfully withstands cement firing operations for a significantly longer period than conventional refractory bricks.The basic refractory composition consists of a synthetic calcium zirconate based clinker in combination with raw materials for magnesia; the molar ratio of CaO to ZrO.sub.2 in said clinker is in the range of 0.5-1.1, at least part of said clinker being in the form of particles having a size not smaller than 0.5 mm, ZrO.sub.2 being present in an amount of 4-49 wt % of said composition, the sum of CaO and MgO being 50-95 wt %, and the sum of ZrO.sub.2, CaO and MgO being at least 80 wt %.