The ancient Roman pagan offerings at the location of the current Roman Curia were likely quite elaborate and messy affairs. While we don't have specific details about that exact location, we can infer what typical Roman sacrificial rituals involved:
Roman pagan sacrifices often included animal offerings, with blood and entrails spilled as part of the ritual[1]. Libations of wine and other liquids would be poured out as offerings. Incense and fragrant herbs would be burned, creating smoke and strong scents[3][5].
The ritual space would be adorned with wreaths, ribbons, and other decorative elements[5]. Votive candles or lamps might be lit[5]. Priests and participants would recite prayers and perform specific ritual actions.
These ceremonies could be quite visceral and messy affairs, involving blood, smoke, and the remains of sacrificial animals. The area would likely be filled with strong smells from the offerings and incense.
It's important to note that the current Roman Curia buildings were constructed much later, so the exact rituals at that specific site in ancient times are not known. However, given the religious significance of the area around the Vatican Hill in Roman times, it's likely that pagan offerings and rituals similar to those described above took place in the vicinity.
Sources
[1] Glossary of ancient Roman religion - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_ancient_Roman_religion
[2] Conclusion | The Last Pagans of Rome | Oxford Academic https://academic.oup.com/book/25723/chapter/193263133
[3] Ex-Catholics in Rome reconnect with roots, spirituality in paganism https://religionnews.com/2024/02/21/ex-catholics-in-rome-reconnect-with-roots-spirituality-in-paganism/
[4] Roman Curia - EWTN Global Catholic Television Network https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/holysee/curia
[5] Paganism and Rome https://penelope.uchicago.edu/~grout/encyclopaedia_romana/greece/paganism/paganism.html