PANASQUEIRA

tungsten mine, Castelo Branco distrito (district), central Portugal. Located in the Serra (mountains) da Estrela, it is about 5 miles (8 km) northwest of the village of Silvares. The mine is one of the leading producers of tungsten in the world. During World War II, Portugal 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 increased productivity. Small amounts of tin and copper are also extracted.