London-based photographer Peter Li considers the cathedrals, basilicas, and historic spaces he captures to be “living vessels of light, symmetry, and time.” Soaring ceilings, gilded filigree, and saintly stained glass windows both reflect religious traditions and create a sanctuary for such practices. Whether in the luminous Gothic style or awe-inspiring Baroque, these spaces are also often architectural marvels, which Li documents through an almost portrait-like approach.

Many of his panoromas span 180 degrees and offer a symmetric, reflective view of the space through a meticulous stitching process. This perspective accentuates the dramatic, all-consuming effect of standing beneath ascendant rib vaults and majestic columns.

“Viserion,” Ely Cathedral, U.K.

More recently, though, Li has begun to capture these spaces more directly, as if he’s just wandered in by chance. The two photos of York Minster reflect this shift and showcase a cathedral hazy with incense during Holy Week.[…]

“Evanescent,” York Minster, U.K.

Read more: https://www.thisiscolossal.com/2026/02/peter-li-architectural-church-cathedral-photos/