Panasqueira, tungsten mine, central Portugal. Located in the Estrela Mountains (Serra da Estrela), it is about 5 miles (8 km) northwest of the village of Silvares. One of several tungsten deposits in Portugal, the mine earned a certain renown during World War II when the country was both publicly criticized and privately admired for allowing this strategic mineral to be exported from Panasqueira to both Axis and Allied powers. Efficient mechanization of the mine has ensured continuing productivity. Small amounts of tin and copper are also extracted.