Results obtained using SPCTRAL2 parametric model for the polluted urban atmosphere of Athens, Greece, were analysed and compared with ground level experimental spectral solar irradiance measurements and spectrally integrated solar irradiances in two discrete narrow bands, ultraviolet and visible. For the aerosol characterization, the aerosol optical depth evaluated at 500 nm was used as the basic input parameter. The algorithm used seems to reproduce the experimental solar spectral irradiances adequately depending on the aerosol model used. The results obtained have been explained through mean bias and root mean square statistical deviations and the resultant influence of the aerosol volume spectra. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.