The whole Christian world is preparing to mark 1700 years from proclamation of the Edict of Milan in 2013, which has stopped persecution of Christians and allowed them to practice their religion.

The key figure for this great historical decision was Emperor Constantine, Roman Emperor born in Naissus (ancient Niš). With this deed he earned epithet Great and Christian church has canonized him.

Ceremonially marking of this jubilee has started today in city of Niš. At the ceremony Serbian Patriarch Irinej and the president of Serbia Tomislav Nikolić declared year 2013 for year of Edict of Milan.

Celebration of this jubilee will last till October.