The Armenian Apostolic Church canonised 1.5 million victims of the Armenian genocide yesterday in what is believed to be the single biggest recognition of sainthood in history. The two-hour canonisation liturgy took place outside Armenia's main cathedral, Echmiadzin, ahead of the 100th anniversary of the genocide today. Catholicos of All Armenians, Karekin II, said: "During the dire years of the genocide of the Armenians, millions of our people were uprooted and massacred in a premeditated manner, passed through fire and sword, tasted the bitter fruits of torture and sorrow. "The canonisation of the martyrs of the genocide brings life-giving new breath, grace and blessing to our national and ecclesiastical life," he said. At the end of the liturgy bells rang out across Armenia and a minute's silence was observed. According to Armenian television, bells were also tolled in New York, Paris, Madrid, Venice and Berlin. Meanwhile, world leaders – including Prince Charles and Prince Harry – gathered in Turkey to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Gallipoli. Armenian president Serzh Sarkisian accused Turkey of "trying to divert world attention" from the Armenian genocide commemorations. The actual fighting started a day later, on April 25.