The main aim of this study is to examine the effect of urban structure on the albedo value. The urban area chosen for this study was Barcelona. On the basis of measurements made in July 1989, and without consideration of the urban structure, the albedo values of various urban structures was determined.Simultaneously, from analysis of Landsat 4 TM images, thus taking account of the urban effect, a method for the calculation of albedo was developed. These results are compared.KEY WORDS Remote sensing Albedo Urban effect