Chelva was home to the ancient Iberians, evidenced by the remains of two villages in Torrecilla and Castillejo de Alcotas.

The origins of the present town can be found in the 11th century, when the ruling Moors established a fortress.

Permanent Moorish control of the town ended in 1194, when the city was conquered by Peter II of Aragon.

In 1214 the Muslims briefly retook Chelva, but by 1238 Christian troops took permanent control of the town.

The city was repopulated with Christians in 1390 and King John I bestowed upon Pedro Ladron de Vilanova the title of Viscount of Cheva.

On the closest weekend to this date people in Chelva make big fires to get the higher amount of "jewels" (live chickens).

People fight to get them because, according to tradition, they bring luck to those who manage to put them behind doors and windows forming a cross.

On Friday night the townsfolk gather at the Plaza Mayor and compete to make the best paella.

The festival also includes sports competitions like indoor football, marathon, chess, and fishing.