The area of Loja was in ancient times close to the frontline of the Moorish and Christian territory so it is not strange that you encounter a lot of fortresses, or ruins of it, in this region. Loja is undoubtedly a city that you must have visited. It has lot of history conserved and it remained in good condition thanks to the renovations. Also the villages like Montefrio and Íllora are a must to see.
The area/villages are not very touristic; the most tourists you see are Spanish, because this area is not really discovered by foreigners yet.