A cupboard or recess in the wall of a church where sacred vessels, vestments, and other liturgical items are stored; also spelled 'aumbry.'
From Old French 'almarie' or Latin 'armarium' (closet, cabinet), possibly influenced by 'amber' or preservation concepts. The term has been used in Christian churches since medieval times for storing holy objects.
Medieval churches built hidden cupboards into their walls like fancy safes to protect their most precious religious treasures—these ambries were sometimes as ornate as the church itself, with intricate carvings!
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