Gomirje is first mentioned in 1461 as part of the Modruš County. After the Ottomans tore down the castle along with a church, the village was left in ruins and the inhabitants driven out. Orthodox soldiers were recruited to defend the land in 1600, which prompted the establishment of an Orthodox monastery. In 1621, Vuk Krsto Frankopan erected a tower by the monastery, which was transformed into a bell tower in 1719. Later, a church was added to it.

The Gomirje Monastery with the Church of St John the Forerunner is the westernmost Serbian Orthodox monastery in Europe.