A UV lamp comprises: a bulb (2) containing a mixture of an inert gas and metallic halides; at least one first electrode (4) and one second (4) electrode associated with the bulb (2); a connector (6), coupled to the bulb (2) and having two thin metal plates (12a) protruding from a portion of said connector (6). Each flat thin plate (12a) is electrically connected to an electrode (4) and is spaced apart from the other thin plate (12a) by at least 20 mm.